Anna's Deep Dives

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2. History of Iran’s Nuclear Program

Iran’s nuclear journey began in 1960 when the United States, under the Atoms for Peace initiative, initiated the program. In 1967, the U.S. provided Iran with a five-megawatt nuclear reactor for research and medical purposes. Installed in Tehran, this reactor laid the groundwork for Iran’s nuclear development.

From the Atoms for Peace Program to the Islamic Revolution

The Atoms for Peace initiative marked the start of Iran’s nuclear ambitions, aiming to share nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. In 1967, the Tehran Research Reactor was established with U.S. assistance, focusing on medical and scientific research. Iranian students were trained abroad, deepening collaborations with Western nations.

By the 1970s, the Shah of Iran sought to build a network of nuclear power plants to meet growing energy demands. Agreements with Germany and France included constructing the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, aiming to generate 23,000 megawatts of electricity and reduce dependence on oil exports.

In 1970, Iran ratified the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), committing to peaceful nuclear development under international oversight. This step aligned Iran with global norms while advancing its nuclear capabilities.

The 1979 Islamic Revolution shifted Iran’s nuclear trajectory. Ayatollah Khomeini, the new Supreme Leader, opposed the Shah’s nuclear projects, viewing them as unnecessary for an Islamic state. Construction of nuclear facilities, including the Bushehr reactors, was halted. Foreign contractors left, and many Iranian nuclear scientists fled, leading to a period of stagnation.

Despite these setbacks, the foundation laid during the Atoms for Peace era enabled Iran to revive its ambitions. This revival began during the Iran-Iraq War, as regional dynamics and security threats highlighted the strategic value of nuclear capabilities.

Key Milestones in Iran’s Nuclear Development

In 1970, Iran ratified the NPT, committing to peaceful nuclear energy under international inspections. The Tehran Research Reactor began operating the same year, marking an important milestone.

The 1979 Islamic Revolution disrupted Iran’s nuclear program. Ayatollah Khomeini halted projects like the Bushehr reactors, deeming them unnecessary. Foreign experts departed, stalling progress.

During the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988), security concerns prompted Iran to reconsider its nuclear program as a potential deterrent. By the late 1980s, Iran sought assistance from foreign partners, including China and Pakistan, to rebuild its capabilities.

In 2002, secret nuclear facilities in Natanz and Arak were revealed, drawing global attention. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) began investigations, uncovering undeclared activities. By 2006, the IAEA referred Iran to the United Nations Security Council for non-compliance with the NPT, leading to international sanctions.

The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) marked a turning point. Iran agreed to limit uranium enrichment to 3.67% and cap its stockpile at 300 kilograms in exchange for eased sanctions. However, in 2018, the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA, reinstating sanctions and escalating tensions.

After the U.S. withdrawal, Iran exceeded JCPOA limits. By 2022, its enriched uranium stockpile surpassed 3,000 kilograms, with enrichment levels reaching 60%. Analysts warned Iran could produce weapons-grade uranium within weeks.

In 2024, Iran’s nuclear program advanced further. The country demonstrated its ballistic missile capabilities and intensified uranium enrichment. Efforts to negotiate a resolution continued, but the program’s trajectory raised global concerns about regional and international security.

Baked with love,

Anna Eisenberg ❤️