Iran has requested it be allowed to maintain 24 centrifuges used in the making of nuclear material for research purposes as an 'exception' to it's non-proliferation agreement signed barely two weeks ago. Iran claims the centrifuges will be used only 'for research purposes.' As part of the agreement of November 7th, Iran agreed to cease all uranium enrichment programs that could lead to weapons grade nuclear materials being made.

Centrifuges are machines that purify uranium by spinning at supersonic speeds. The finished product can be used to fuel power plants or nuclear weapons.

Members of the European Union remained opposed to the request and now question Iran's true intent with regard to enriching uranium and obtaining nuclear weapons. Iran has insisted all along that the freeze was only temporary and that it does intend to develop nuclear technology.

One diplomat close to the negotiations said, 'The Iranians asked to be allowed to continue conducting research and development with centrifuges during the freeze, but the Europeans told them, 'No'.'

The diplomat is fearful that Iran may have enough enriched unranium to develop a nuclear weapon within two years. 'They already have the parts for 1,100 to 1,200 centrifuges,' said the diplomat.

President Bush has listed Iran as one of the three members of the 'Axis of Evil,' i.e. states that support international terrorism and attacks on American interests and allies.

Iran is also not pleased with the amount of access weapons inspectors will have inside their country. Talks are ongoing in Vienna in an attempt to resolve the matter.