Iran 'one week' from bomb-grade uranium? Protests flare again in Tehran - top developments
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Iran is reported to be just one week away from producing bomb-grade uranium, according to concerns raised by Steve Witkoff, the U.S. special envoy to the Middle East. This assessment comes amid rising tensions between Iran and the Trump administration, following a series of strikes in June 2025 that targeted nuclear sites and dismantled key components of Iran's nuclear program. While these actions significantly hampered Tehran’s capabilities at the time, experts warn that Iran still retains the knowledge and infrastructure to quickly resume its enrichment efforts.
The situation is further complicated by reports that Iran’s Revolutionary Guard is actively overseeing Hezbollah’s military preparations, escalating regional tensions. This has drawn warnings from Arab nations, who fear unprecedented consequences if conflict erupts. Meanwhile, Witkoff emphasized the urgency of addressing Iran's nuclear ambitions, stating that Tehran could theoretically rebuild its program and produce weapons-grade uranium in a matter of days.
Despite these concerns, U.S. and Israeli intelligence now estimate that Iran is at least two years away from becoming a nuclear power, giving both nations time to assess their next moves. Witkoff highlighted Trump’s curiosity about Iran's refusal to reach a deal, rather than frustration, suggesting the administration remains focused on limiting Tehran’s ability to enrich uranium in the future.
This development is critical for global security, as it underscores the delicate balance of power in the Middle East and the ongoing efforts by the U.S. and its allies to prevent Iran from achieving nuclear capabilities. The situation also raises questions about the effectiveness of past military actions and whether they have truly curtailed Iran’s nuclear ambitions. As tensions continue to rise, the world remains on edge, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/22/2026