WASHINGTON: Chris Wright warned lawmakers that Iran is “frighteningly close” to developing nuclear weapons during testimony before the US Senate Armed Services Committee, according to reports released Wednesday.
During the hearing, Wright stated that Iran could reach weapons-grade uranium enrichment within “a small number of weeks.” He explained that Tehran already possesses uranium enriched up to 60%, while weapons-grade material typically requires enrichment levels near 90%.
Although Wright acknowledged that additional weaponization steps would still be necessary, he emphasized that Iran remains dangerously close to acquiring nuclear weapons capability.
Furthermore, the energy secretary described even 20% uranium enrichment as highly concerning because of the size of Iran’s reported uranium stockpile.
Trump Administration Highlights Uranium Concerns
According to reports, officials within the administration of US President Donald Trump have repeatedly cited Iran’s enriched uranium reserves as a key justification for the ongoing conflict involving Tehran.
CNN reported that Iran’s stockpile may total at least 11 tons of enriched uranium. Meanwhile, Trump has reportedly insisted that Iran surrender its uranium reserves as part of any future peace agreement with Washington.
Wright also told senators that removing Iran’s entire enriched uranium stockpile would represent a “wise strategy” for preventing future nuclear escalation.
Washington Pushes to Halt Iran’s Nuclear Programme
In addition, Wright stressed that the broader objective remains ending Iran’s uranium enrichment programme altogether.
He argued that global security depends on preventing Tehran from maintaining the ability to enrich uranium in the future. According to Wright, eliminating the programme would reduce the risk of nuclear proliferation and improve international stability.
The remarks came amid continuing tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear activities and ongoing regional conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Tehran-backed groups across the Middle East.
Meanwhile, international observers continue closely monitoring diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing further escalation in the region.
