Iran’s 60% enriched uranium stockpile and failed talks led to U.S. airstrikes that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, escalating regional tensions.

U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said Iran possesses 460 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium—enough for up to 11 nuclear bombs—and admitted it could be converted to weapons-grade material within days. He reported Iranian negotiators boasted of evading international oversight and rejected a U.S. proposal to halt enrichment for 10 years in exchange for fuel, asserting an “inalienable right” to enrich. The U.S. launched Operation Epic Fury, a large-scale strike campaign targeting Iran’s missile program and navy, following the collapse of talks. The strikes, conducted with Israel, reportedly killed Iran’s supreme leader and other top officials. The U.S. maintains it aims to stop Iran’s nuclear ambitions without seeking regime change but warns further action may follow.