Iran’s nuclear programme is emerging as another major flashpoint in its confrontation with the United States, with warnings over a possible change in Tehran’s nuclear doctrine, emergency civil defence preparations and growing threats against regional infrastructure deepening security concerns.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) estimates that Iran holds approximately 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 per cent purity, a level significantly below the 90 per cent generally associated with weapons-grade uranium but considerably higher than the enrichment required for most civilian nuclear applications, reports Associated Press.
The size and enrichment level of the stockpile have heightened international concerns as diplomatic efforts to contain the conflict remain uncertain.
An official spokesman for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned that the country’s armed forces are prepared to act immediately if the Iranian leadership decides to change its official nuclear doctrine.
The warning raises questions about whether the escalating military confrontation could influence Tehran’s future nuclear calculations.
Although the statement does not confirm a decision to pursue nuclear weapons, it signals that Iran is keeping a possible change in its strategic posture on the table.
The warning comes as Washington continues to target Iranian military infrastructure and demands greater transparency over Tehran’s nuclear activities.
Iranian civilian and health authorities have begun emergency civil defence preparations amid concerns about possible attacks on sensitive nuclear infrastructure.
Health officials have confirmed the distribution of potassium iodide tablets to residents living near critical facilities, including the Bushehr nuclear power plant and installations near Pickaxe Mountain.
The tablets are intended to protect the thyroid gland against radioactive iodine exposure in the event of a radiological emergency.
The preparations underline concerns about the potential consequences of strikes on fortified nuclear facilities, although the distribution itself does not indicate that a radiological incident is imminent.
