Iran Keeps Enriched Uranium
Analysis based on 37 articles · First reported May 21, 2026 · Last updated May 21, 2026
The directive from Mojtaba Khamenei to keep enriched uranium in Iran significantly escalates geopolitical tensions, particularly between Iran, the United States, and Israel. This could lead to increased volatility in oil markets due to potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and heightened defense sector activity as military threats persist.
Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a directive stating that the country's near-weapons-grade uranium must remain within Iran. This decision hardens Tehran's stance against a key demand from the United States and Israel in ongoing peace talks, which aim to end the US-Israeli war on Iran. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have both insisted on the removal of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile as a condition for peace. Iranian officials, including top peace negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, express deep suspicion that the current ceasefire is a tactical deception by Washington to prepare for renewed airstrikes. The International — International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its chief Rafael Grossi have provided estimates on Iran's uranium stockpile, and dilution under IAEA supervision is suggested as a possible resolution. However, Iran's new directive complicates negotiations mediated by Pakistan and increases the risk of further military conflict, especially given Iran's denial of seeking nuclear weapons despite enriching uranium to 60%.
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