WASHINGTON — The United States is offering up to $20 million in rewards for information about Iran’s nuclear programme, including its facilities, equipment and personnel, the State Department said.
The department’s Rewards for Justice programme announced the offer, saying it was seeking information about Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, individuals involved in the programme and the movement of related equipment and personnel.
The reward, which could reach $20 million, may also include relocation assistance for individuals providing information, according to the department.
The announcement was publicised by the US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM) on social media on Friday, as Washington steps up efforts to gather intelligence on Iran’s nuclear activities amid escalating tensions between the two countries.
The Rewards for Justice programme said it was seeking details about facilities associated with Iran’s nuclear programme, the equipment used at those sites and individuals involved in its development and operation.
It is also interested in information about the movement of nuclear-related materials, equipment and personnel, suggesting a broader effort to track the programme's infrastructure and supply networks.
The US announcement cited concerns over Iran’s cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), saying the UN nuclear watchdog had lost what it described as “continuity of knowledge” regarding key aspects of Iran’s nuclear activities.
The agency has previously raised concerns about Tehran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, a level far above the 3.67 percent limit set under the 2015 nuclear deal, but below the roughly 90 percent generally considered weapons-grade.
Uranium enriched to 60 percent can be further processed to weapons-grade material, although enrichment alone does not mean a country has developed a nuclear weapon.
Iran has consistently maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful and intended for civilian energy and scientific purposes. Western governments, particularly the United States and Israel, have accused Tehran of seeking the capability to develop nuclear weapons.
The latest reward offer comes amid a broader confrontation between Washington and Tehran, following months of military escalation and diplomatic efforts to address the nuclear dispute.
The Rewards for Justice programme, established in 1984 and administered by the State Department, offers financial incentives for information that helps protect US national security. It can also provide relocation assistance to individuals whose cooperation puts them at risk.
The department did not provide details on how the maximum reward would be determined or how many people might qualify for payments under the offer.
GO WORLD
Share this story
