Iran breaks ground on new nuclear research reactor amidst international scrutiny

Iran began construction on a new nuclear research reactor at its Isfahan site, marking a turning point in the country’s nuclear program

In a significant development, Iran announced on Monday the commencement of construction for a new nuclear research reactor at its Isfahan site, a move coming shortly after revealing plans for a nuclear power plant complex in the southern region.

 Mohammad Eslami, Iran’s nuclear head, officially confirmed that the turning point in Iran’s nuclear program had started, saying “Today, the process of pouring concrete for the foundation of the reactor started at the Isfahan site.” When built, Iran’s program is set to be one of the cornerstones of the entire Middle East.

The new 10-megawatt research reactor in central Iran is being added to the Isfahan nuclear research center. According to the IRNA, the reactor is designed to be a vital source of neutrons supporting fuel and nuclear material tests and the production of industrial radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals.

The development comes against harsh U.S. sanctions reimposed in 2018 when then-President Donald Trump backed away from a crucial nuclear deal. The 2015 deal lifted Iran from the heavy sanctions slammed on the country in return for restrictions on the country’s nuclear program. Iran, in turn, states that it only plans to develop a nuclear program for peaceful purposes.

The announcement has also responded to recent criticism of Iran by Rafael Grossi, the Director-General of the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), who had expressed frustration over Iran’s stymied cooperation with the international nuclear watchdog.

Eslami had also declared on Thursday that a new nuclear power plant complex would be built in Sirik near the strategically located Strait of Hormuz. The deal for the 5,000-megawatt project is part of Iran’s overall plan to raise its nuclear power generation to 20,000 megawatts by 2041—a level that is now surpassed only by five countries in the world.

The nuclear power plants in Sirik are due to be commissioned by 2031 and will join the already operational Bushehr power plant, which has a capacity of 3,000 megawatts. The move reflects continued Iranian ambitions to enhance its nuclear abilities at a time when the nation is under immense international scrutiny and is also confronted by overwhelming domestic energy needs.

Source: AFP