Witkoff says Iran ‘a week away’ from nuclear bombmaking material
The Hill
by Ashleigh FieldsFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has claimed that Iran is just a week away from acquiring materials capable of producing nuclear weapons through its uranium enrichment program. During a recent appearance on Fox News’s “My View with Lara Trump,” Witkoff highlighted that Iran’s enrichment level has reached 60%, which he described as a significant milestone in the context of nuclear weapon development. This claim underscores growing concerns over Iran’s nuclear activities and their potential implications for regional and global security.
The statement by Witkoff adds urgency to an already tense situation, particularly given Iran’s history of nuclear negotiations with international partners. At 60%, the enriched uranium is considered a key threshold for weaponization, as it moves closer to the 90% level typically required for bomb-grade material. This raises questions about Iran’s intentions and whether its nuclear program remains purely peaceful, as the country has consistently claimed.
The timing of this revelation coincides with ongoing diplomatic efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a 2015 agreement that aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for economic sanctions relief. Witkoff’s remarks may further complicate these negotiations, as they reinforce fears among Western allies and Israel about Iran’s potential breakout capacity.
For readers interested in politics, this issue highlights the delicate balance of power and security concerns in the Middle East. The situation with Iran’s nuclear program has far-reaching implications for international relations, regional stability, and global efforts to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. As tensions mount, all eyes remain on Tehran’s next moves and how the international community will respond.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/23/2026