In a recent interview with German public broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW), Rafael Mariano Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), expressed deep concerns over Iran's recent nuclear activity, stating that it "raises eyebrows" and suggesting that Tehran could potentially develop a nuclear bomb within a matter of weeks.

The IAEA, in its December report, revealed that Iran had tripled its uranium enrichment level, reaching 60 percent, which is dangerously close to the threshold required for weapons-grade nuclear material, set at 90 percent. Grossi's warning comes at a time when tensions remain high between Iran and Israel, following an alleged Israeli strike on an Iranian embassy in Syria, to which Tehran responded with drone and missile attacks against Israel.

Grossi highlighted the lack of necessary access and visibility for the IAEA in Iran's nuclear facilities, further emphasizing his concerns. He stressed that the combination of Iran's nuclear activities and restricted access raises numerous question marks.

The IAEA chief reiterated previous statements made in January 2023, asserting that Iran possesses enough enriched uranium to build "several" nuclear weapons, contradicting Iran's longstanding claims that its nuclear program serves only peaceful purposes.

The Biden administration expressed deep concerns over the IAEA's December report. A spokesperson from the Department of State pointed out that Iran lacks credible justification for enriching uranium up to 60 percent, particularly considering its involvement in destabilizing activities in the region through its backing of militant groups and proxies.

Grossi revealed that Iran is now "weeks rather than months" away from having enough enriched uranium to potentially develop a nuclear bomb. However, he clarified that this does not imply that Iran currently possesses or will possess a nuclear weapon within that timeframe. He also raised the issue of traces of enriched uranium found at undisclosed locations, further discussing the importance of dialogue with Iran on these matters.

Despite his concerns, Grossi expressed his intention to travel to Tehran in the near future, aiming to engage in further dialogues regarding the issues that concern the IAEA. He expressed hope that these discussions would help restore trust and transparency with Iran.

The development of Iran's nuclear program remains a contentious issue, with the IAEA chief sounding the alarm on the potential for Iran to produce a nuclear bomb within weeks. As tensions continue to rise, international stakeholders and diplomatic efforts will be crucial in preventing further escalation and addressing concerns surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions.