How Iran’s Enriched Uranium Impacts Global Politics: Exam-Focused Guide

The Iran Nuclear Crisis: What You Need to Know
Recent U.S.-led strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan have escalated tensions. Here’s a breakdown of key issues:
Why Did the Strikes Happen?
Iran’s stockpiling of Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU)—a critical component for nuclear weapons—violated the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
The U.S. and Israel targeted Fordow’s underground centrifuges (80m deep) to cripple Iran’s nuclear capabilities.

3 Critical Fallouts
Success of Strikes:
Fordow’s ventilation shafts were destroyed, potentially sealing centrifuges underground. If inoperable, Iran’s HEU production halts.
HEU’s Uncertain Fate:
Directly bombing HEU stockpiles could create “dirty bombs” (radioactive fallout). Global backlash risks make this unlikely.
Future Diplomacy:
A new nuclear deal requires lifting U.S. sanctions, Iranian political stability, and renewed talks.

Role of International Bodies
IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency): Monitors nuclear activity but lacks enforcement power.
NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty): Failed to prevent Iran from uranium enrichment.
Nuclear Technology Basics
Nuclear Fission: Splitting heavy atoms (e.g., uranium) → releases energy (used in atomic bombs).
Nuclear Fusion: Merging light atoms (e.g., hydrogen) → cleaner energy (still experimental).
Fun Fact: The first nuclear fission weapon was tested in 1945 (Manhattan Project), leading to Hiroshima/Nagasaki attacks.


Why This Matters for Your Exams
Prelims: Directly linked to “Current Events of National/International Importance.”
Mains (GS-II): Tests understanding of “Policies of Developed/Developing Nations Impacting India” and geopolitics.
Key Exams: SSC, UPSC, PSC, NIFT, FDDI (GK/Current Affairs sections).


Sample Exam Questions & Answers
Q: What is HEU, and why is it critical in Iran’s nuclear program?
A: Highly Enriched Uranium (85-90% purity) is used to build nuclear weapons. Iran’s stockpiles violate the JCPOA.
Q: Which IAEA principle did Iran breach?
A: The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which restricts non-nuclear states from enriching uranium.
Q: Name the three Iranian nuclear facilities recently targeted.
A: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
Q: Why are “dirty bombs” a global concern?
A: They spread radioactive material without a nuclear explosion, causing long-term contamination.
Q: What was the primary goal of the JCPOA?
A: To limit Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.


How to Smart Prepare for Entrance Exams in Less Time
Cramming global affairs before exams? Save time with these hacks:
Focus on Most Predicted Questions:
→ myentrance.in’s exam-specific packs highlight recurring themes (e.g., Iran-Israel conflicts, IAEA roles).
Last-Minute Current Affairs:
→ Get condensed monthly digests on myentrance.in—updates on treaties, conflicts, and tech breakthroughs.
GK Mastery:
→ Use myentrance.in’s flashcards for quick revisions of nuclear tech terms (fission vs. fusion), treaties (JCPOA, NPT), and maps.
Pro Tip: 70% of exam questions recycle core topics. Master high-yield content instead of memorizing headlines!