Iran’s nuclear energy program has been a subject of global attention for decades. The country operates the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, which became operational in 2011 with Russian assistance. Iran has also pursued uranium enrichment, a process necessary for both civilian energy production and potential military applications. While Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, international concerns persist regarding its enrichment levels and transparency.

Iran’s nuclear ambitions date back to the 1950s, initially supported by the U.S. under the Atoms for Peace initiative. However, after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, cooperation ceased, and Iran continued its nuclear activities independently. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), signed in 2015, aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief. However, the U.S. withdrawal from the agreement in 2018 led to renewed tensions and Iran resuming enrichment beyond JCPOA limits.

Recent reports indicate Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, raising concerns among international watchdogs. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed difficulty in verifying Iran’s nuclear activities, fueling speculation about its intentions. As diplomatic negotiations continue, Iran’s nuclear future remains uncertain, with global powers closely monitoring its developments.

Find out where the country’s nuclear sites are located, and what goes on at each of them, on our interactive map of Iranian nuclear sites.