Iran Claims US-Israeli Strikes Targeted Natanz Nuclear Facility

Iran has made significant allegations regarding military actions involving the United States and Israel, claiming that its Natanz nuclear complex was attacked. These assertions were presented during a session of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) 35-nation Board of Governors. Reza Najafi, Iran’s envoy to the UN nuclear watchdog, confirmed the incident to the media, stating, “Again they attacked Iran’s peaceful, safeguarded nuclear facilities yesterday.” When specifically inquired about the affected site, he identified Natanz.

The allegations arise amid escalating regional tensions stemming from operations conducted by the United States and Israel, namely Operation Epic Fury and Operation Roaring Lion. Reports indicate that these operations resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has initiated a series of attacks aimed at U.S. and Israeli infrastructures across various nations in West Asia.

During the IAEA Board of Governors meeting, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi conveyed serious concerns regarding the precarious security situation in the region. He cautioned that the likelihood of a radiological release with potentially grave consequences could not be dismissed. Grossi remarked, “The IAEA has extensive knowledge of the nature and location of nuclear and radiological material in the region, and we have clear guidance for actions necessary in case of an attack or an accident causing a radiological release as well as the ability for hands-on help if it is required.”

He stressed the urgency of the situation, emphasizing, “We cannot rule out a possible radiological release with serious consequences, including the necessity to evacuate areas as large or larger than major cities.” Grossi further clarified that the agency collaborates closely with member states and is prepared to respond immediately should nuclear safety be in jeopardy.

Grossi highlighted that several countries in the region, which have faced military strikes, possess operational nuclear power plants and research reactors, thereby heightening the overall risk to nuclear safety. He noted, “Iran and many other countries in the region that have been subject to military attacks have operational nuclear power plants and nuclear research reactors, as well as associated fuel storage sites, increasing the threat to nuclear safety.” Furthermore, the United Arab Emirates operates four nuclear reactors, while Jordan and Syria have functional nuclear research reactors. Countries including Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have also been subjected to attacks, all of which engage in various nuclear applications.

Amidst these rising tensions, Grossi assured that radiation levels in the neighboring countries of Iran remain unchanged. He mentioned that the regional safety monitoring network is on high alert and is maintaining ongoing communication with the IAEA regarding potential threats.

Regarding Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, Grossi reported no current evidence of damage to any nuclear facility. He stated, “We have no indication that any of the nuclear installations, including the Bushehr nuclear power plant, the Tehran research reactor, or other nuclear fuel cycle facilities, have been damaged or hit.” He also remarked on the efforts to establish contact with Iranian nuclear regulatory authorities, noting that there has been no response thus far, and called for the restoration of communication channels.

In light of ongoing diplomatic efforts, Grossi revealed that he has been invited for discussions in Geneva, mentioning, “Diplomacy is hard, but it is never impossible. Nuclear diplomacy is even more difficult, but it’s never impossible.”

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