The key facts

  • The US State Department offered a large reward for information on Iran's nuclear program, including data on the movement of equipment and personnel after American strikes
  • Information can be submitted via encrypted Signal or an anonymous online channel; in addition to money, assistance with relocation to another country is promised
  • The rationale is a lack of reliable data: IAEA inspectors are unable to monitor centrifuge production and stockpiles

Announcement of the reward

The US State Department, under its Rewards for Justice program, announced its readiness to pay a large sum — according to Kun.uz, $20 million — for information concerning Iran's nuclear program. The American side is interested in data on 'facilities, equipment and involved personnel,' including scientists. Intelligence services also intend to find out where equipment and personnel may have been relocated after the US strikes. The offer itself is posted on the program's website Rewards for Justice.

How to submit information and what is promised

Information can be sent via the encrypted messenger Signal or through the State Department program's anonymous online channel. In addition to money, informants are promised, where necessary, assistance with relocation to another country.

Rationale and enrichment data

The State Department explained the initiative by a lack of reliable data on the state of Iran's nuclear program: since Tehran is not fulfilling its obligations to the IAEA, inspectors are unable to monitor key components, including centrifuge production and stockpiles. According to the State Department, Iran has enriched uranium to 60%, whereas a level of about 90% is required to create nuclear weapons. According to expert estimates, if the existing stockpiles were further enriched, they could potentially be sufficient for several warheads.