Iran has resumed the production of 20% enriched uranium at its underground nuclear facility in Fordow, an Iranian government spokesman said Monday. Iranian state media later reported that authorities had seized a South Korean-flagged tanker and arrested its crew, alleging "oil pollution" in the Persian Gulf.
The big picture: The news comes amid heightened U.S. fears of a possible Iranian attack, one year after the assassination of Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani. 20% enriched uranium — which is banned under the 2015 nuclear deal — can't be used for military purposes, but is a step closer to the 90% enrichment needed to build a nuclear bomb.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement that the move is a violation of Iran's nuclear commitments and proof that Iran wants to continue its military nuclear program. "Israel will not allow Iran to produce nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said.
Iran resumes 20% uranium enrichment, seizes South Korean tanker
The announcement come less than three weeks before Biden assumes office.
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