US president’s apparent decision to leave highly enriched uranium in hands of regime creates a more risky scenario than before the war began, experts say

 

US president’s apparent decision to leave highly enriched uranium in hands of regime creates a more risky scenario than before the war began, experts say

Experts warn that President Donald Trump’s apparent decision to leave Iran's highly enriched uranium (HEU) stockpile in place—rather than seizing or destroying it—has created a more dangerous scenario than before the war began on February 28, 2026.

 

The current situation is defined by the following key developments:

Stockpile Remains Intact: Despite a month of intense US-Israeli strikes, Iran continues to control approximately 440kg (972 lbs) of 60% enriched uranium. Experts from The Guardian note this material is a "short, technical step" away from the 90% purity required for nuclear weapons.

Presidential Dismissal: On April 1, 2026, President Trump stated he "didn't care" about the stockpile, arguing it is buried so deeply underground that it is "safe" and can be monitored via satellite. This has led critics to question the primary justification for the war—preventing a nuclear-armed Iran—since the material remains within the regime's reach.

Failed Diplomacy vs. Risky Military Options: Prior to the conflict, a negotiated settlement was reportedly on the table that would have addressed the HEU. Now, the military is weighing a highly risky ground operation involving up to 1,000 specialized troops to extract the material, a mission fraught with logistical and radiological dangers.

Increased Proliferation Risk: Analysts from The New York Times and other outlets point out that if the war concludes with the regime still in possession of this stockpile, Iran will be significantly closer to a nuclear breakout than it was before the invasion.