IAEA: Iran ready to double operative centrifuges at Fordo

WASHINGTON (JTA) — Iran is set to double the number of active centrifuges at an enrichment site Israel claims has been proofed against attack.

The International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog, estimates that Iran could soon double the number of operating centrifuges at the underground Fordo nuclear site from 700 to 1,400, multiple media outlets reported Friday.

Fordo, near the holy city of Qom, is built into a mountainside. Israeli and western officials say that it has been fortified against attack.

According to reports, it has close to 2,400 centrifuges.

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, has said that Iran could be poised to manufacture a nuclear weapon as soon as next spring. Israel favors a military strike should diplomatic and economic efforts to stop the suspected weapons program fail.

President Obama said this week that he had a “window” oif several months to bring about a diplomatic solution.

Click here for updates on the Jewish vote, Jewish candidates and other election news.

Click to write a letter to the editor.