28 January 2004
Speaking to a gathering of students, SNSC head Rohani announces that Iran's goodwill gesture to temporarily suspend uranium enrichment could stop at any time. "Whenever we think it is right we will restart it," he said.
—"Iran: Uranium Enrichment Halt To Be Short," Reuters, 28 January 2004.

1 February 2004
According to the Tehran Times, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Bolton, currently on a visit to Moscow, admits that Iran's nuclear program is of peaceful intent. The paper suggests that this therefore is proof that U.S. allegations regarding Iran's activities were only "propaganda."
—"Iranian Paper Sees U.S. 'Turnaround' on Bushehr Nuclear Plant," Tehran Times, 1 February 2004.

1 February 2004
Hamidreza Asefi, spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, announces that Iran and Russia have no serious differences as concerns cooperation in the nuclear sphere. Talks during Russian Atomic Energy Minister Rumyantsev's upcoming visit to Tehran will focus mainly on "repatriating to Russia spent nuclear fuel originating in that country."
—"Iranian Spokesman Denies Differences With Russia on Bushehr Nuclear Plant," ITAR-TASS, 1 February 2004.

3 February 2004
Iran is prominently cited in an assessment of Middle East proliferation by IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei, who refers to the situation as "unsustainable" and suggests that "if we do nothing, catastrophe is only a matter of time." He supports the idea of a Middle East WMD-free zone, saying that "any enduring peace in the Middle East will only be achieved through an inclusive and comprehensive approach to security, which should include a ban on WMD, limitations on conventional armaments and appropriate security and confidence building measures." He adds: "Any attempt to achieve security for one country at the expense of insecurity for others will ultimately fail."
—"Time Is Ripe To Act on Middle East Weapons," IAEA.org, 3 February 2004.

12 February 2004
The discovery in Iran of undeclared designs for centrifuge technology that is key to producing bomb-grade material has led U.S. Undersecretary of State John Bolton to stress again the U.S. conviction that Iran's nuclear aims are not peaceful. In addition, Bolton questions Iran's commitment to suspending uranium enrichment activities.
—"New Iran Nuclear Designs 'Found'," BBC News, 12 February 2004.

14 February 2004
Iran's Foreign Minister Kharrazi announces that Iran is prepared to sell nuclear fuel to international buyers.
—"Iran Ready To Sell Nuclear Fuel Abroad," Reuters, 14 February 2004.

17 February 2004
Foreign Minister Kharazzi declares that nuclear fuels for sale were not actually currently available, although Iran certainly had the "capacity and the potential." He also confirms that Iran is in the midst of a research program for the development of a new centrifuge. Iran is being criticized for working within an apparently narrow definition of what it means when it suggests it has suspended its uranium enrichment program.
—"Iran Not Enriching Uranium: Foreign Minister," Spacewar.com, 17 February 2004.

20 February 2004
The White House expresses "serious concerns" with regard to a report that parts found in Iran by UN nuclear inspectors appear to correspond to those of a P-2 centrifuge. Iranian Foreign Minister Kharrazi claims that the P-2 is merely part of a research program, about which the IAEA has been informed.
—"Iran Nuclear Find 'Concerns' U.S.," BBC News, 20 February 2004.

20 February 2004
Malaysian police cite evidence that Pakistani scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan sold Iran $3 million worth of nuclear centrifuge parts in 1994 or 1995 via a middleman named Buhary Syed Abu Tahir.
—"Pakistan's Khan Sold Iran Nuclear Parts, Police Say," BBC News, 20 February 2004.

22 February 2004
In a statement released by the Foreign Ministry, Iran acknowledges having secretly bought nuclear parts via international sources, although it continues to insist that its goal is electricity production versus nuclear weapons. Iranian Spokesman Hamidreza Asefi reiterates that all such purchases have been reported to the IAEA.
—"In Face of Report, Iran Acknowledges Buying Nuclear Components," The New York Times, 22 February 2004.

23 February 2004
The Washington Post reports UN nuclear inspectors have come across further undisclosed research in Iran. Iran experimented with polonium-210, which "heightens suspicions because polonium-210 is so linked to a certain type of neutron-initiator." Iran acknowledges the experiments but points to polonium's possible use also in power generation and says the experiments occurred "some time ago."
—Karl Vick, "Another Nuclear Program Found in Iran," The Washington Post, 24 February 2004.

25 February 2004
IAEA Director General ElBaradei circulates his report on the agency's nuclear verification in Iran. He praises Iran's cooperation with regard to site access especially, but expresses dismay at the dearth of "prompt information." He describes the P-2 centrifuge discovery as a "setback" and expresses the hope that it would be Iran's last oversight with regard to program disclosure. ElBaradei also suggests that a "comprehensive" suspension of centrifuge manufacturing and assembly would be a good confidence-building measure.
—"Director General Comments on Iran Report," IAEA.org, 25 February 2004.

25 February 2004
Foreign Ministry spokesman Hamidreza Asefi states that IAEA concerns are "purely procedural" and described the polonium research project as a "misunderstanding" that would soon be resolved. Asefi explained that the polonium research project was undertaken 13 years ago.
—"IAEA Report Confirms Iran's Full Cooperation with UN Nuclear Watchdog: FM Spokesman," Mehr News Agency, 25 February 2004.

26 February 2004
Speaking to Russia's RIA NOVOSTI, Iran's Aqazadeh expresses disappointment that scheduled construction of the Bushehr nuclear plant is lagging.
—"Bushehr Nuclear Plan Process Lagging," Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, 26 February 2004.

26 February 2004
Ken Brill, U.S. ambassador to the IAEA, comments that the recently released IAEA report "proves Iran's October 2003 declaration of the IAEA was neither correct nor complete." Brill reiterates the U.S. position that Iran's nuclear efforts are "clearly geared to the development of nuclear weapons." The United States has again called for the IAEA to refer Iran to the UN Security Council.
—"U.S. Again Accuses Iran of Hiding Nuclear Program," Middle East Online, 26 February 2004.

28 February 2004
UN inspectors reveal that the unexpected source of some of the highly enriched uranium found on Iranian nuclear machinery is Russia, apparently via the black market versus by government approval. The "strong clue" on which lab studies centered was a 36 percent enrichment level, which occurs only in Russia. Thirty-six percent is short of the 90 percent necessary for bomb-making.
—"Uranium Traveled to Iran Via Russia, Inspectors Find," The New York Times, 28 February 2004.

1 March 2004
Speaking to reporters in Beirut regarding the likelihood of an Israeli attack on Iran, Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani rules out the possibility, adding however that should Israel be so unwise, Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon would regret "his folly."
—"Iran Warns Israel Against Attack," Daily Times, 1 March 2004.

2 March 2004
IAEA Director General ElBaradei, speaking in Brussels, suggests that Iran is being more cooperative than in the past and that nuclear program verification in Iran is "moving in the right direction."
—"IAEA Director General Says Iran Verification "Moving in Right Direction," IAEA, 2 March 2004.

7 March 2004
SNSC head Hassan Rohani seeks IAEA closure of the Iran file, restating Iran's "inalienable right" to a nuclear program and asking for recognition of that program's peaceful intent.
—"Iran Seeks Nuclear File Closure," BBC News, 7 March 2004.

8 March 2004
The IAEA's Mohamed ElBaradei is meeting in Vienna with the Board of Governors to discuss the report on Iran. ElBaradei evinced serious concern about Iran's patchy declaration on its nuclear program, suggesting it is "a setback to Iran's stated policy of transparency." Iran's ambassador Pirooz Hossein said that the declaration had never been intended to present a "full picture" of past nuclear activities, which is contrary to Iran's October statement that the declaration represented full disclosure.
—"Iran's Nuclear Stance Criticized," BBC News, 8 March 2004.

9 March 2004
A resolution being drafted at an IAEA Board of Governors meeting will include criticism of Iran for not disclosing all of its activities, with the intent thereby of precluding a possible move for sanctions.
—"Iran Set for UN Nuclear Censure," BBC News, 9 March 2004.

10 March 2004
Iran's Foreign Minister Kharrazi threatens halting cooperation with the IAEA if it failed to resist U.S. "bullying" with regard to drafting a resolution censuring Iran.
—"Iran Chides U.S. Nuclear Bullying," BBC News, 10 March 2004.

10 March 2004
Traces of uranium detected last year by UN inspectors are revealed to include some enriched to 90 percent -- weapons grade. The IAEA suggests that the source of the contamination may have been Pakistan.
—"Alarm Raised Over Quality of Uranium Found in Iran," The New York Times, 11 March 2004.

12 March 2004
IAEA talks stall with regard to a U.S.-backed resolution condemning Iran for its alleged nuclear weapons development activities. Non-aligned states hope to integrate praise for Iran's cooperation efforts thus far.
—"IAEA Talks on Iran N-Plan Stalled, No Compromise Reached," IranExpert.com, 12 March 2004.

12 March 2004
Iran's IAEA Ambassador Hosseini announces the postponement of a UN mission to inspect its nuclear facilities. He asserts that the move is not politically motivated but due to administrative draw downs with the approaching Iranian New Year. A new date has not been established.
—"Iran Puts Off UN Nuclear Inspection Mission," Middle East Online, 12 March 2004.

16 March 2004
Mohamed ElBaradei, the IAEA director general, is of the opinion that "the Iranians are open to a deal" but normalized relations between Iran and the United States are a prerequisite. In talks with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage, ElBaradei advocated a dialogue between the two countries, which Armitage said would be taken under advisement.
—"UN Watchdog Suggests U.S.-Iran Nuclear Dialogue," Reuters, 16 March 2004.

17 March 2004
Iranian President Khatami indicates that Iran would continue its cooperation with the IAEA "as long as we know the U.S. plots are not effective."
—Parinoosh Arami, "Khatami: Iran to Continue Nuke Cooperation With IAEA," Reuters, 17 March 2004.

17 March 2004
IAEO head Rohani, speaking in Tokyo, states that Iran would accept nuclear verification teams into the country again after March 27th. IAEA head ElBaradei declared confidence that progress in the Iran case would be made, and that the "ball is clearly in Iran's court" in any attempt to absolve it of possible military intentions attached to its nuclear technology and research.
—"UN Nuclear Chief Says Iranian Cooperation Crucial to Unravel Atomic Program," AFP, 17 March 2004.

18 March 2004
In talks with President Bush, the IAEA's ElBaradei asserts that Iran is now cooperating fully and that its nuclear weapons-building intentions are still uncertain.
—"UN Briefs U.S. on Nuclear Controls," BBC News, 18 March 2004.

27 March 2004
A two-person IAEA inspection team arrives in Tehran with visits to the Natanz and Isfahan facilities on their agenda.
—"Nuclear Inspectors Return to Iran," BBC News, 27 March 2004.

29 March 2004
Gholamreza Aqazadeh, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, announces the cessation of centrifuge building for uranium enrichment. UN inspectors have reported finding only "hundreds" of centrifuges, well below what would be needed to build nuclear weaponry. Aqazedeh states that Iran's voluntary action is specifically to engender international trust and confidence.
—"Iran Says It Stopped Building Centrifuges," Associated Press, 29 March 2004.

31 March 2004
Speaking under condition of anonymity, a Western diplomat suggests that recent intelligence appears to indicate that Iranian enrichment activities have not ceased but merely been moved from Natanz to smaller sites elsewhere. Iran's ambassador to the UN Pirooz Hosseini says these charges are "baseless."
—"Diplomats: New Data Suggests Secret Iran Atomic Plan," Reuters, 31 March 2004.

31 March 2004
Germany, France, and Britain's foreign ministries have release identical statements criticizing Iran's announced plan to start up a uranium enrichment facility in Isfahan, saying it "sends the wrong signal regarding Iran's readiness to implement a suspension of its activities." UN ambassador Pirooz Husseini rejects the criticism, saying "the plant is a totally separate issue from out commitment to the suspension of uranium enrichment;" he added that he would be discussing the situation with the three European representatives in the next few days.
—Richard Bernstein, "Europeans Criticize Iran's Plan to Start Up Enrichment Plant," The New York Times, 1 April 2003; "Iran Uranium Plant Sparks New Row," BBC News, 1 April 2004.

2 April 2004
An unidentified Western diplomat divulges that HEU has been located at sites other than Natanz and Kalaye, raising further questions regarding Iran's bomb-making ambitions.
—Louis Charbonneau, "More Bomb-Grade Uranium Found in Iran," Reuters, 2 April 2004.

6 April 2004
Speaking after five hours of discussion with Iranian officials, IAEA head ElBaradei refers to "welcome and positive steps" designed to put an end to concerns regarding Iran's nuclear activities. Iran has agreed to schedule UN inspections; its head for atomic energy Gholamreza Aqazadeh has pledged to accelerate Iran's cooperation.
—"Iran Agrees to Nuclear Timetable," BBC News, 6 April 2004.

7 April 2004
Iran declares its intention to move forward with plans to construct a heavy water reactor to produce radioisotopes for medical research. Diplomats greet the announcement with concern however, as it is possible to reprocess the spent fuel rods to produce plutonium.
—"Iran 'to Press On With Reactor'," BBC News, 7 April 2004.

21 April 2004
The Iranian newspaper Ya-Lesarat reports the arrest of two atomic experts suspected of passing nuclear secrets abroad.
—"Iran Arrests Two for Passing Nuke Secrets -- Paper," Reuters, 21 April 2004.

11 May 2004
SNSC Secretary General Rohani expresses confidence that the IAEA would provide "a fair and exact report for the June meeting of the board of governors" in view of what he portrays as Iran's full cooperation on the nuclear issue. Iran would like to be dropped from the IAEA agenda after that meeting.
—"Iran Nuclear Case Moving Toward Solution," Reuters, 11 May 2004.

29 June 2004
The IAEA's ElBaradei declares that Russian nuclear cooperation with Iran on the Bushehr reactor is not a matter for concern as it is for energy production only and there exists an agreement to return the spent fuel to Russia. ElBaradei says the Bushehr reactor was not even mentioned in his talks with President Vladimir Putin.
—"UN Clears Iran Nuclear Facility," BBC News, 29 June 2004.

8 July 2004
ElBaradei expresses the opinion that it is unwise to take Iran to the Security Council, as "you run the risk that Iran might opt out of the NPT and you have another North Korea" and that it was a good idea therefore to give diplomacy a chance in the absence of a "smoking gun."
—Louis Charbonneau, "ElBaradei Wary of Taking Iran to Security Council," Reuters, 8 July 2004.

12 July 2004
SNSC Secretary General Rohani, speaking on state television, rules out negotiations with the United States regarding its nuclear program, noting that Iran held talks with Germany, France, and Great Britain at their initiative only and declaring furthermore that the IAEA represented the only viable negotiating party on this issue.
—"Iran Rules Out Direct Nuclear Talks with U.S.," Reuters, 12 July 2004.

29 July 2004
A Bush administration official reveals that there is an effort underway to determine Israel's intentions regarding a possible unilateral attack on Iranian nuclear installations. Iranian General Mas'ud Jazayeri recently stated that such an attack would be met with "a strong, decisive and effective response."
—Ori Nir, "U.S. Fears Israeli Strike Against Iran," The Forward, 29 July 2004.

10 August 2004
Germany, France, and Great Britain decline to reply to a list of Iranian demands that includes access to advanced dual-use nuclear technology, removal of restrictions on Iranian nuclear sales, agreement to sell conventional weapons to Iran, assurances regarding the Europeans' commitment to Iran, and support for a nuclear-free Middle East.
—"Iranian Nuclear Demands Stun Europeans," Associated Press, 10 August 2004.

10 August 2004
The IAEA tentatively concludes that equipment contaminated with HEU and found in Iran originated in Pakistan.
—"Iran Uranium Traces Probably Came From Pakistan, UN Nuclear Watchdog Inspectors Say," Global Security Newswire, 10 August 2004.

18 August 2004
U.S. Undersecretary of State John Bolton states that Iran told European Union members that it can produce sufficient weapons-grade uranium for an atomic bomb in one year. Bolton asserts that the United States has tried diplomacy but sees Iran as a threat, and therefore prefers isolation versus engagement with it on the nuclear issue.
—"U.S. Calls Iran Nuclear Threat; IAEA Report Not Expected to Rule Out Iran Weapons Program," Global Security Newswire, 18 August 2004.

19 August 2004
Iran's Defense Minister Ali Shankhani states that "Israel won't carry out any military action without a green light from America." He warns that Iran may resort to preemptive attack "if it feels threatened." The statement occurred just one day after the deputy chief of the Revolutionary Guard threatened to lay waste to Israel's Dimona reactor should Israel attack Iran's nuclear facilities.
—"Iran: Israel Needs U.S.'s OK to Attack Our Reactor," The Jerusalem Post, 19 August 2004.

20 August 2004
Foreign Minister Kharrazi suggests that the IAEA withdraw the Iranian dossier from the agenda of the Board of Governors meeting in September.
—"Iran Calls on IAEA to Close Nuclear Dossier," Tehran Times, 20 August 2004.

24 August 2004
An Iranian nuclear energy official announces that the startup of the Bushehr reactor will be delayed approximately one year, until 2006.
—"Iran Delays Nuclear Plant Opening," BBC News, 24 August 2004.

28 August 2004
Iranian President Mohammad Khatami states Iran seeks a more active security role in the Middle East. He further states that Iran has the right to enrich uranium and that Iran is willing to provide guarantees to the IAEA that it is not developing nuclear weapons.
-- Miranda Eeles, "Tehran Seeking Role in Mid-East," BBC, 28 August 2004.

31 August 2004
Iran arrests several people tied to the Iraqi-based Iranian opposition group, People's Mujahedeen Organization, for passing information on Iran's nuclear program to "enemies."
--"Iran Arrests Dozens 'For Spying'," BBC, 31 August 2004.

1 September 2004
According to a report released by the IAEA, Iran announces plans to convert 40 tons of raw uranium into uranium hexafluoride.
--"Iran Said to Be Nearing Enrichment of Uranium," Associated Press, 1 September 2004.

8 September 2004
Top Iranian Security advisor, Hassan Rowhani, while in talks in the Netherlands with European Union officials about Iran's nuclear program states: "If the Europeans do not respect their commitments or present an illogical or harsh resolution, Iran has already decided its response." Rowhani further says, "Iran will never compromise on its right to gain access to the complete nuclear fuel cycle."
--"Iran Warns EU of 'Response' if Nuclear Pressure Too High," AFP, 8 September 2004; "Iran Will Never Compromise on Nuclear Fuel Cycle: Rowhani," Tehran Times, 9 September 2004.

9 September 2004
Foreign Ministers from Britain, France, and Germany set a two-month deadline for Iran to suspend all enrichment activities during a meeting with Iranian officials in the Netherlands.
--Matthew Clark, "Britain Sets Nuclear Deadline for Iran," Christian Science Monitor, 9 September 2004.

13 September 2004
Iranian opposition group, National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) holds a news conference in Paris, stating that Iran's nuclear activities are "more widespread than it has made public." NCRI is also known as Mujahideen e-Khalq or the People's Mujahideen.
-- Donna Bryson, "Iranian Opposition Makes Allegations About Tehran's Nuclear Activities," Associated Press, 13 September 2004.

21 September 2004
Iranian President Khatami states Iran will continue its nuclear program, even if it means an end to UN oversight.
-- Ali Akbar Dareini, "Khatami: Iran Will Pursue Nuclear Program," Associated Press, 21 September 2004.

4 October 2004
Iran's parliament meets to draft a bill to force the government to resume uranium enrichment over the objections of the international community.
-- Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran Hard-Liners Drafting Bill to Force Resumption of Uranium Enrichment," Associated Press, 4 October 2004.

6 October 2004
Iran's chief delegate to the IAEA, Hossein Mousavian indicates that Iran has produced tons of the hexaflouride gas needed to enrich uranium by converting few tons of yellowcake uranium. Mousavian further states that the UF6 was produced for peaceful uses and that Iran is ready to take measures to alleviate international concerns about its nuclear program.
-- Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iranian Nuclear Official Says Iran Has Produced Gas That Is a Step Toward Nuclear Enrichment," Associated Press, 6 October 2004.

7 - 10 October 2004
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Alexeyev states that Russia will continue its nuclear technology cooperation with Iran. During a visit by the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to Tehran, Iranian Foreign Minister Kharrazi confirms Iran's stance that it has a legitimate right to gain access to nuclear technology. Mr. Lavrov states in a joint press conference, "Moscow and Tehran could sign an agreement on Russian nuclear fuel supplies to Iran in the very near future."
-- "Russia to Continue Nuclear Cooperation with Iran," Xinhua, 7 October 2004; "Iran Welcomes Proposals Recognizing its Right to Nuclear Energy - Minister," BBC, 10 October 2004; "Russian Minister Visits Iran, Says Nuclear Fuel Deal Imminent," BBC, 10 October 2004.

12 October, 2004
Iranian Foreign Minister Kharrazi assures European officials that Iran would not produce nuclear bombs, so long as its right to enrich uranium was recognized. According to the Associated Press, Kharrazi states: "the time has come for Europe to take a step forward and suggest that our legitimate right for complete use of nuclear energy is recognized [in return for] assurances that our program will not be diverted toward weapons." The statement comes six weeks prior to Iran's deadline to show the IAEA that it has ceased enrichment and all related activities.
-- Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran Offers Nuclear Assurances to Europe," Associated Press, 12 October 2004.

12 October 2004
US officials work with European officials to devise a plan to use threats and incentives to persuade Iran to end its nuclear activities.
-- Carol Giacomo, "EU Targets Iran's Nuclear Program: Tehran's Response Appears to Doom European Effort," Reuters, 13 October 2004.

14 October 2004
Russian authorities announce the completion of the Bushehr atomic power plant in Iran. To calm the international community's concerns, Russia agrees not to start the Bushehr plant in Tehran until Iran commits to return all spent nuclear fuel to Russia.
-- "Russia Says Finished Building Iran Nuclear Plant," Reuters, 14 October 2004.

15 October 2004
Senior G-8 representatives meet in Washington to discuss Iran's nuclear program. According to Reuters, Iran is described by a Western diplomat in Vienna as wanting an assurance of no "regime change" like that of Iraq if it is to suspend its enrichment program.
-- "Iran Wants Guarantee of No 'Regime Change' - Diplomats," Reuters, 15 October 2004.

18 October 2004
Iranian Secretary General for the Supreme National Security Council Hasan Rowhani states that Iran is willing to negotiate with European nations on the length of its uranium enrichment suspension. However, he reiterates Iran's refusal to completely give up its right to carry out the enrichment process.
--"Iran Ready to Negotiate Enrichment Halt Length," Reuters, 18 October 2004.

21 October 2004
Officials from Britain, France, and Germany present Iran with a "last-chance proposal" for Iran to convince the international community that it is not developing atomic weapons. The three countries offer Iran "valuable nuclear technology" in return for Iran's suspending all uranium enrichment activities. If Iran does not agree it will be threatened with possible UN sanctions.
-- "European Heavyweights Pressure Iran Over Nuclear Program; Talks to Continue," AFP, 21 October 2004.

26 October 2004
Iranian hard-line lawmakers introduce a bill to force the government to resume uranium enrichment and stop UN inspections of nuclear facilities. One-third of parliament members have already signed in support. Analysts suspect that the Iranians are using this as a bargaining tool ahead of the IAEA negotiations this week.
--"Iran MPs Propose Bill to Resume Uranium Enrichment," Reuters, 26 October 2004.

26 October 2004
Mansour Habashizadeh, head of the Iranian Center for Research and Production of Nuclear Fuel in Iran, announces scientists' successful development of technology to design and produce zirconium, a nuclear metal. The metal is said to be used in the "heart of a nuclear reactor and as a nuclear fuel protector." Zirconium alloy cladding is also said to be used for nuclear fuel tubes placed in the reactor core within the heart of the nuclear reactor.
--"Iran Weighs Incentives to Halt Nuke Plans," Associated Press, 26 October 2004.

29 October 2004
To assist France, Britain and Germany in negotiations with Iran over its enrichment program, IAEA head Mohamed ElBaradei has offered to guarantee Iran a supply of fuel for its nuclear power plants in return for abandoning uranium enrichment activities.
--Louis Charbonneau, "UN Offers to Guarantee Nuke Fuel for Iran--Diplomats," Reuters, 29 October 2004.

31 October 2004
The Iranian parliament has unanimously approved a bill requiring the government to resume uranium enrichment.
--Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iranian Parliament Approves Bill Requiring Government to Resume Uranium Enrichment," Associated Press, 31 October 2004.

1 November 2004
Iranian Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani says that Iran is seeking to establish a non-aggression pact with neighboring countries.
--"Iran Seeks Regional Non-Aggression Pact," Tehran Times, 1 November 2004.

2 November 2004
Ambassadors from France, Britain, and Germany have released an official statement calling on Iran to halt all uranium enrichment activity in exchange for nuclear technology, access to nuclear fuel, increased trade, and assistance with regional security concerns. Meanwhile, Iranian President Mohammad Khatami has stated that Iran is prepared to reach an agreement regarding its nuclear program, as long as Iran's right to peaceful nuclear technology is recognized.
--"Iran and EU Hold Last-Chance Meeting on Tehran's Nuclear Program," AFP, 4 November 2004; "Iran 'Ready for Nuclear Accord," BBC, 2 November 2004.

3 November 2004
According to Russia's Interfax news agency, Ali Akbar Soltan, deputy director-general of Iran's Foreign Ministry, says that Iran has the capacity to produce nuclear weapons but has no intention of doing so.
--"Iran Can Make Atom Bomb But Does Not Plan To - Iranian Official," AFX News, 3 November 2004.

4 November 2004
An anonymous source has told the Russian News & Information Agency (RIA) that there is thus far no evidence of Iran having worked on nuclear weapons and that IAEA chief Mohamed ElBaradei is expected to confirm this in his final report on Iran to the Board of Directors at the end of the month.
--"IAEA Finds No Proof of Tehran's Work on Nuclear Weapons," RIA Novosti, 4 November 2004.

5 November 2004
While Iranian diplomats met with EU officials in Paris to find a compromise on Iran's nuclear program, Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stated that Iran is not seeking nuclear weapons. Khamenei claims that US accusations are unfounded and "aimed at preventing Iran's technological progress."
--Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran Dismisses Nuclear Ambitions," Associated Press, 5 November 2004.

6 November 2004
China gives Iran public support in its standoff with the IAEA, stating it opposed US efforts to have the matter referred to the UN Security Council.
--"China Backs Iran Amid 'Difficult' Nuclear Talks with EU," AFP, 6 November 2004.

7 November 2004
According to ITAR-TASS Russian News Agency, Japan's Sankei Shimbun newspaper alleges that North Korea shipped gas used in atomic fuel enrichment and production of war-grade uranium to Iran on 20 May, and that Iran signed an agreement for the delivery of gaseous fluorine because of a shortage at the Isfahan nuclear research center.
--Andrei Antonov, "Pyongyang Supplies Gaseous Fluorine to Iran - Japanese Newspaper," ITAR-TASS, 7 November 2004.

7 November 2004
In an effort to persuade Iran to abandon its alleged weapons program, Britain offers to build Iran a light-water nuclear reactor and supply it with other needed nuclear material
--Nicholas Rufford and Robert Winnett, "Britain Offers Iran Nuclear Plant Aid," Sunday Times (London), 7 November 2004.

8 November 2004
The Russian Federation ambassador to Iran, Aleksandr Maryasov, says Russia is against "politicizing Iran's nuclear case" through bullying or undiplomatic methods. Maryasov also states that the first phase of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, for which Russia is providing assistance, is almost complete and equipment is being installed.
--"Russian Ambassador Says Moscow Against Politicizing Iran's Nuclear Case," BBC, 8 November 2004.

9 November 2004
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexandr Yakovenko has declared that the Russian-Iranian protocol is nearly drafted and will soon be signed. The agreement requires Iran to return any spent nuclear fuel to Russia.
--"Russia-Iran Spent Nuclear Fuel Agreement Nearly Drafted," Interfax, 9 November 2004.

10 November 2004
Iranian negotiating official Sirus Naseri, in talks with the European Union, warns that Iran will pull out of the NPT and develop its atomic program in secret if "western pressures" persist. "We will never accept cessation [of enrichment]. This issue has been removed from the talks," states Naseri.
--Paul Hughes, "Iran Official Warns of NPT Pull-Out if West Presses," Reuters, 10 November 2004.

13 November 2004
Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi reveals that Iran is in the final stages of talks with European diplomats over nuclear arms. Iran continues to deny developing nuclear arms and has offered guarantees regarding the program's safety.
--Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran Says Nuclear Talks in 'Final Stages'," Associated Press, 13 November 2004.

14 November 2004
The IAEA has published the agreement reached between Iran and the governments of France, Germany, and Britain. The report recognizes Iran's rights to pursue nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and reaffirms Iran's commitment to the NPT to not seek to acquire nuclear weapons. Furthermore, Iran agrees "on a voluntary basis, [to] continue and extend its suspension to include all enrichment related activities." The IAEA is to implement the monitoring of this suspension with a steering committee scheduled to meet on the issue in the first half of December 2004.
--"Iran-EU Agreement on Nuclear Programme," IAEA, 14 November 2004.

15 November 2004
According to Deutsche Presse-Agentur (DPA), the IAEA confirms in its report on Iran that it has not found any evidence that Iran had used nuclear material to develop weapons, although it could not rule out the existence of nuclear materials that had not been declared. Iran has agreed to cease its enrichment program on 22 November and invited the IAEA to monitor. Iran is still facing a 25 November IAEA compliance deadline or else face sanctions by the Security Council.
--"Roundup: IAEA Report: No Proof of Iranian Plans for Nuclear Weapons," DPA, 15 November 2004; 'UN Probe Backs Iran Nuclear Claim," BBC, 15 November 2004.

16 November 2004
Iranian hardliners voice anger over the Iran-EU deal to suspend all activities related to its nuclear enrichment program, saying that there is no guarantee of the EU's commitment.
--Parisa Hafezi, "Iranian Hardliners Unhappy with Nuclear Deal," Reuters, 16 November 2004.

17 November 2004
The exiled Iranian opposition group, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), alleges that Pakistani scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan gave Iran weapons grade uranium and a design for a nuclear bomb. According to the same group, Khan had already given a quantity of HEU (highly enriched uranium) to Iran in 2001. Iran is purportedly also secretly enriching uranium at a military site previously unknown to the IAEA, even though it promised to halt all such work.
--Louis Charbonneau, "Iran Got Warhead Design, Bomb-Grade Uranium - Exiles," Reuters, 17 November 2004.

18 November 2004
US Secretary of State Colin Powell suggests that the US has intelligence that confirms Iran is "actively working" to enable its missiles to carry nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, Iran is moving forward on its plan to run 50,000 centrifuges to enrich uranium, to meet the fuel requirements of a nuclear reactor set to be finished next year. Iran is thought to currently possess less than 1,000 centrifuges; experts say that the addition of another 500 will produce enough weapons-grade uranium to produce a bomb annually.
--"Iran Said Trying to Fit Missiles for Nukes," USA Today, 18 October 2004.

18 November 2004
Iranian officials deny allegations by an opposition group that Iran is seeking material to build an atomic bomb.
--Parisa Hafezi, "Iran Says It Has No Secret Nuclear Activities," Reuters, 18 November 2004.

19 November 2004
Western diplomats claim Iran is producing uranium hexafluoride, which can be used to make nuclear weapons, days before its promise to halt such activities takes effect. Iranian officials deny allegations.
--"Iran 'Rushing Nuclear Enrichment'," BBC, 19 November 2004.

22 November 2004
Iran freezes all sensitive nuclear work including uranium enrichment while France, Britain, and Germany circulate a draft resolution calling on the IAEA to notify member states if it finds Iran has resumed enrichment activity.
--Louis Charbonneau, "Iran Halts Key Nuclear Work to Avoid UN Sanctions," Reuters, 22 November 2004; "EU 3 Circulate Iran Draft Calling for Notification," Reuters, 22 November 2004.

23 November 2004
According to the Chinese news agency Xinhua, Iranian officials reject IAEA allegations that Iran produced two tons of uranium hexafluoride (UF6) gas for military purposes. Officials respond that the gas was used for an unspecified research project.
--"Iran Rejects Accusation on Military Use of UF6," Xinhuanet (China), 23 November 2004.

23 November 2004
The CIA releases an unclassified version of its report to Congress outlining concerns over various countries, including Iran spreading technology or expertise that can be used to make WMD. The report, covering all activities between July 1 and December 31, 2003, affirms that Iran "vigorously" pursued programs to produce nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons in late 2003, and is currently working to improve delivery systems. The report also discusses serious concerns regarding Pakistani scientist A.Q. Khan and his network's involvement with Iran. Specifically, the report addresses the following:

• In 2003, Iran continued to pursue an indigenous nuclear fuel cycle with clear weapons potential
• Beginning August 2002, an Iranian opposition group revealed several previously undisclosed nuclear facilities in Iran
• The IAEA has reported several failures by Iran to disclose facilities and activities, contrary to its safeguards obligations
• A.Q. Khan's network provided Iran with designs for Pakistan's older centrifuges, as well as designs for more advanced and efficient models and components
• The IAEA has reported further evidence of Iran breaching its obligations under the NPT, including failures to report:

1. report the importation and chemical conversion of uranium compounds
2. report the separation of plutonium from irradiated uranium targets
3. report the enrichment of uranium using centrifuges and lasers
4. provide the design information for numerous fuel cycle facilities

Furthermore, the CIA report affirms that although Iran signed the Additional Protocol on December 18, 2003, it has taken no steps to ratify it during the reporting period.
--"CIA: Countries Spreading WMD Technology May Be Growing in Number," Associated Press, 23 November 2004; Tabassum Zakaria, "CIA Says Iran, Qaeda Pursued Nuclear Weapons," Reuters, 23 November 2004; Doug Jehl, "C.I.A. Says Pakistanis Gave Iran Nuclear Aid," The New York Times, 24 November 2004; "Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions, 1 July through 31 December 2003," CIA, http://www.cia.gov, 23 November 2004.

24 November 2004
Iran requests that EU nations allow it to continue to conduct "research and development" with centrifuges during the freeze period. Western diplomats say the European Union has rejected their request.
--"Iran Wants to Amend Nuke Freeze, EU Says No," Reuters, 24 November 2004.

27 November 2004
Pakistani government officials downplay allegations from a newly released CIA report that A.Q. Khan provided more assistance to Iran's nuclear program than previously revealed. Khan is said to have provided "significant assistance" to Iran, including designs for Pakistan's older centrifuges, as well as for more advanced and efficient models and components. Although pardoned by Pakistani President Musharraf, Khan is still under house arrest in Pakistan.
--Paul Alexander, "Pakistan Downplays CIA Report on Leaks," Associated Press, 27 November 2004.

28 November 2004
Iran drops demands to be allowed to continue some of its nuclear activities. An IAEA draft resolution for Iran to continue its suspension of nuclear-related activities was held up due to Iranian demands for some sensitive technology to be exempt from the deal.
--"Iran Offers Nuclear 'Concession'," BBC, 28 November 2004.

29 November 2004
The IAEA Board of Governors has adopted a resolution regarding Iran, putting into effect the NPT Safeguards Agreement. The report welcomes Iran's voluntary decision to suspend all enrichment related and reprocessing activities. IAEA Director General Dr. Mohamed ElBaradei has revealed that surveillance cameras are now in place to monitor Iran's 20 sets of centrifuge components. Meanwhile, the United States has reaffirmed its preparedness to unilaterally refer Iran to the Security Council if this is deemed necessary. Iran continues to deny allegations that it has a secret or ill-intentioned nuclear program.
--"Implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement in the Islamic Republic of Iran," IAEA, 29, November, 2004; Dr. Mohamed El Baradei, "Statement to the Board of Governors," IAEA, 29 November 2004; "US Keeps Nuclear Pressure on Iran," BBC, 29 November 2004; "Iran Has Never Had Nuclear Weapons Program - Embassy," Interfax, 29 November 2004.

30 November 2004
Top Iranian negotiator Hassan Rowhani affirms that Iran has not abandoned its right to enrich uranium as the agreed upon suspension is only temporary while the IAEA inspects Iranian nuclear sites over several months. EU officials still hope Iran will make the suspension permanent in return for trade deals and other incentives.
--Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran's Top Nuclear Official Says Tehran Has Not Abandoned Enrichment of Uranium Since Its Suspension is Limited," Associated Press, 30 November 2004; Paul Hughes, "Iran Says Nuclear Freeze Won't Last Long," Reuters, 30 November 2004.

1 December 2004
Iranian Ministry of Information announces the arrest of Iranian Asghar S. who was allegedly pretending to work on nuclear centrifuges in order to "damage Iran's recent nuclear agreements and commitments" as a spy.
--"Iran Says it has Arrested Spy Trying to Taint its Nuclear Agreements," Associated Press, 1 December 2004.

2 December 2004
The National Council of Resistance to Iran (NCRI) opposition group has raised suspicions regarding two covert Iranian military sites where nuclear activities may be taking place, sparking IAEA's interest to inspect the sites. UN diplomats state that the IAEA lacks the legal authority to search these sites as they may only monitor civilian nuclear programs, and the facilities in question were never declared as nuclear sites.
--Louis Charbonneau, "UN Lacks Right to Inspect Sites in Iran - Diplomats," Reuters, 2 December 2004.

2 December 2004
IAEA inspectors seek access to two secret Iranian military sites. Intelligence data suggests the Iranian Ministry of Defense may be working on atomic weapons there. The information is based on satellite photos indicating testing of high explosives, and procurement records showing the purchase of equipment that may be used for uranium enrichment. The two sites are the decades-old Parchin military complex, southeast of Tehran, and a newer facility, Lavizan II, built in northeastern Tehran. Information on the second site was provided by the Iranian opposition group, the National Council of Resistance to Iran (NCRI).
--William J. Broad, David E. Sanger and Elaine Sciolino, "Arms Inspectors Said to Seek Access to Iran Sites," The New York Times, 2 December 2004.

3 December 2004
The Iranian chief of the Expediency Council, Rafsanjani, says Iran expects to join the club of nuclear states. Rafsanjani declares that Iran is ready to reassure the world that it is not looking to acquire nuclear weapons, although it is also not willing to give up its legal right to pursue the matter. Iran seeks to restart its enrichment processes within six months.
--"Rafsanjani Says Iran Expected to Join Club of Nuclear States," BBC, 3 December 2004.

5 December 2004
The Iranian daily newspaper Shargh quotes Sirous Nasseri, a member of Iran's nuclear program negotiating team, as stating that Iran has mastered the nuclear fuel cycle since last year.
--Nazila Fathi, "Iran Hints it Sped Up Enriching Uranium as a Ploy," The New York Times, 6 December 2004.

22 December 2004
Iranian Intelligence Minister Ali Yunesi claims Iran has arrested more than 10 people on nuclear spying charges over the past few months. The alleged spies are said to be passing sensitive information to the Mossad and the CIA.
--Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran Says It Has Detained More than 10 in Recent Months on Nuclear Spying Charges, Associated Press, 22 December 2004.

22 December 2004
British Prime Minister Tony Blair states Europe will ensure Iran abides by its obligations to its international commitments. Meanwhile Iranian parliament members reaffirm their commitment to pressure Tehran to resume its nuclear efforts if Europe doesn't fulfill its part of the agreement.
--"Europe to Ensure Iran Follows Agreement, Blair Says," Global Security Newswire, 22 December 2004.

27 December 2004
Russian head of Atomic Energy Agency (Rosatom), Aleksandr Rumyantsev states Russia is very likely to start supplying nuclear fuel to Iran's Bushehr power plant in 2005. The two countries are scheduled to sign an agreement in January. Meanwhile, Tehran has promised new contracts for Russia, including seven generating units worth $10 billion.
--"Russian-Iranian Nuclear Cooperation to be Accelerated in January," Ria Novosti, 27 December 2004.

	Updated April 2005