The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Grossi, has warned of a significant rise in nuclear activity in North Korea, raising fresh concerns about global security.
Grossi said there has been a “Rapid increase” in operations at the Yongbyon nuclear complex, a key facility linked to North Korea’s nuclear weapons program. He described the development as “Very serious” indicating that the country is strengthening its ability to produce nuclear weapons.
According to the IAEA chief, North Korea is now believed to possess enough material to produce a few dozen nuclear warheads, marking a notable expansion in its nuclear capability. The increase in activity suggests that Pyongyang may be accelerating its weapons production efforts despite international sanctions.
The Yongbyon facility has long been at the center of North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and renewed activity there is seen as a sign that the country is continuing to develop its program without external oversight.
The IAEA does not have direct access to North Korea, which limits its ability to fully verify developments on the ground. However, the agency relies on satellite imagery and other intelligence sources to monitor nuclear activity.
Global powers have repeatedly called for North Korea to halt its nuclear program and return to negotiations. However, talks aimed at denuclearization have remained stalled in recent years.
Experts warn that the continued expansion of North Korea’s nuclear capabilities could increase tensions in the region and pose a broader threat to international security.
The situation is being closely monitored as concerns grow over the potential impact on regional stability and global peace.
