The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog has confirmed that there has been no rise in off-site radiation levels following U.S. airstrikes on three of Iran’s key nuclear facilities—Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. The strikes, conducted in coordination with Israel, mark a significant escalation in regional tensions.
Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stated that Iran’s regulatory authorities reported no radiation leaks from the affected areas. “There is no increase in off-site radiation levels,” he said, while urging all parties to “work for peace” and offering the IAEA’s support in mediation efforts.
The Esfahan nuclear site, previously targeted multiple times by Israeli strikes since June 13, has now suffered what Grossi described as “extensive additional damage.” The IAEA had earlier confirmed that several buildings within the Esfahan complex, some possibly housing nuclear materials, were already damaged. "We have established that entrances to underground tunnels at the site were impacted," the agency said.
Fordow, a highly fortified uranium enrichment facility built deep within a mountain, was also hit in Sunday’s attack. Due to its underground location and the nature of the munitions used, the full extent of the damage remains uncertain. “It is clear that Fordow was directly impacted, but the degree of damage inside the uranium enrichment halls can't be determined with certainty,” Grossi explained.
Satellite imagery reviewed by Reuters and experts from Maxar Technologies showed “unusual activity” at the Fordow facility in the days leading up to the strike, including a line of vehicles outside the entrance. A senior Iranian source told Reuters that Iran had relocated much of its 60% enriched uranium—close to weapons-grade—to an undisclosed location prior to the attack.
The Natanz facility, which has previously been the site of sabotage and airstrikes, was also hit with ground-penetrating munitions during the latest assault, further intensifying concerns about the region’s nuclear security.
The IAEA announced plans to resume verification activities in Iran, including inspections of its stockpile of over 400 kilograms of highly enriched uranium. Grossi called for a renewed push toward diplomacy: “We need to return to the negotiating table. The IAEA is ready to play its indispensable role. We are in discussions with both Iran and the United States. We have to work for peace.”
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)