IAEA Chief Warns of North Koreas Nuclear Arms Manufacturing Capacity Increase

International Atomic Energy Agency Head Confirms Increase in North Korean Nuclear Operations

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has stated that there is a significant increase in operations at North Korea’s Yongbyon reactor. According to Grossi, this development suggests an enhancement in the country’s ability to produce atomic weapons.

The IAEA has observed a rise in activities at multiple facilities within the Yongbyon nuclear site, including a reprocessing unit and light-water reactor. Additionally, other facilities have been activated, indicating a notable increase in North Korea’s nuclear capabilities.

Grossi noted that these findings point to an estimated production of a few dozen warheads. The agency has also identified the construction of a new facility similar to the enrichment facility at Yongbyon.

The IAEA has not observed any evidence of assistance from Russia in North Korea’s nuclear development, according to Grossi. However, it is worth noting that North Korea has been receiving military technology assistance from Moscow in exchange for its support of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

North Korea has a history of conducting nuclear tests and is subject to United Nations sanctions for its banned weapons programs. The country has maintained that it will not surrender its nuclear capabilities.

Source: Al Jazeera