In recent developments, Western officials have expressed growing concern over claims made by senior Iranian leaders regarding the country's alleged progress in obtaining all the necessary components and nuclear fuel required to produce atomic weapons. These officials, who spoke to Semafor on the condition of anonymity, are particularly focused on an interview with Ali Akbar Salehi, a former head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization and a key negotiator involved in the 2015 nuclear agreement, broadcasted on Iranian state television.

During the interview, Salehi asserted that Iran has crossed all the thresholds of nuclear science and technology, comparing the process to the construction of a car, where each component serves its purpose. These remarks by Salehi have drawn a rebuke from Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), who expressed concern over the loose talk about nuclear weapons and urged Iran to clarify its capabilities.

This is not the first time Iranian officials have suggested that Iran possesses the capability to produce nuclear weapons. Such claims have been on the rise since October 7, when the Palestinian militant group Hamas, supported by Tehran, launched an attack on southern Israel. In the aftermath, Iran's allies in the Middle East, including militias in Yemen, Iraq, and Syria, intensified their attacks on U.S. bases and personnel in the region.

The IAEA has also raised alarm by warning that Iran has tripled its monthly production of weapons-grade uranium and limited the agency's ability to monitor Tehran's nuclear advancements. Amidst the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear deal, some Iranian officials within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) are reportedly questioning adherence to Iran's official policy against developing nuclear weapons. They argue that such possession would provide Iran with immunity against attacks and a means to protect allies in the region.

The Biden administration has been vocal in warning Iran against further advancing its nuclear program, particularly with its recent production of uranium enriched to 60% purity. The White House and Israel have both indicated that they would consider military action if Iran were to cross the line and reach 90% enrichment, which is considered usable in producing nuclear weapons.

Despite these warnings, the Biden administration has stated that it does not seek a direct conflict with Iran and remains committed to a diplomatic solution. Efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), have been met with limited interest from Tehran in recent months.

As tensions continue to rise, Major General Hossein Salami, the commander-in-chief of the IRGC, has issued threats of reprisals against the U.S. in the event of a direct strike on Iran or IRGC personnel.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, concerned about the potential consequences of Iran's alleged advancements in its nuclear program and the impact it may have on regional stability.