From The Cradle (West Asian geopolitics from within, with just a hint of saffron), March 2:
Iran's lithium deposits are estimated at 8.5 million metric tons, which would make it the world's second largest lithium reserve after Chile
The Islamic Republic of Iran discovered one of the world’s largest lithium reserves, according to a report published by Press TV on 27 February.
According to a senior official of the Iranian Ministry of Industry, Mine, and Trade (MIMT), the lithium deposits could contain some 8.5 million metric tons (MT) ready for extraction, which would make it one of the largest global discoveries.
Currently, Chile is the second biggest producer of lithium in 2022, with around 39,000 MT. The country’s reserves are the largest in the world, with 9.3 million MT. Until now, the second largest reserves were said to be in Australia, with 3.8 MT.
Ebrahim Ali Molabeigi, the head of the MIMT’s exploration department, said that more lithium ore reserves could be discovered in Hamedan, a region with large clay deposits....
....MUCH MORE
Well, then the U.S. will just have to invade, won't it?
I kid. Invasion is so 2003. These days it's proxies or nothing as the U.S. can barely field an armed and functioning military. I mean seriously, have you seen the physical condition reports for recruitment-age populations? Three-quarters of them don't pass the (relaxed physical requirements). And armed? The U.S. and NATO can barely keep Ukraine fighting.
Fortunately, as Elon Musk says, mining lithium is not a bottleneck, refining, somewhat.
It's the nickel supply that worries him.
