Iran's Nuclear Activities: A Timeline of Developments

Background

Iran's nuclear program has been a subject of international concern for decades. The country has been accused of developing nuclear weapons, despite its claims that its program is solely for peaceful purposes.

2002: Discovery of Undeclared Nuclear Sites

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) discovers undeclared nuclear sites in Iran, raising concerns about the country's nuclear intentions.

2003: IAEA Report on Iran's Nuclear Activities

The IAEA issues a report stating that Iran has failed to comply with its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has engaged in activities that could be related to nuclear weapon development.

2006: First UN Security Council Resolution

The United Nations Security Council passes Resolution 1696, demanding that Iran suspend its uranium enrichment activities and cooperate with the IAEA.

2010: Stuxnet Cyberattack

The Stuxnet computer virus, widely attributed to the United States and Israel, targets Iran's nuclear program, causing significant damage.

2013: Election of Hassan Rouhani

Hassan Rouhani is elected President of Iran and vows to pursue a more moderate foreign policy, including a resolution to the nuclear issue.

2015: Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is signed between Iran and the P5+1 (US, UK, France, Russia, China, and Germany). The agreement places strict limits on Iran's nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of sanctions.

2018: US Withdrawal from JCPOA

President Donald Trump withdraws the United States from the JCPOA and re-imposes sanctions on Iran.

2019: Iran Announces Uranium Enrichment Beyond JCPOA Limits

Iran announces that it will no longer comply with certain provisions of the JCPOA and begins enriching uranium beyond the limits set by the agreement.

2022: IAEA Report on Iran's Nuclear Activities

The IAEA publishes a report stating that Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of enriched uranium since the US withdrawal from the JCPOA.

Current Situation

The future of Iran's nuclear program remains uncertain. The country has stated that it will not return to full compliance with the JCPOA unless the US lifts all sanctions.