VIENNA — On Monday, the head of the United Nations’ nuclear oversight body reported concerns about potential radiological and chemical threats at Iran’s primary nuclear enrichment site, Natanz, after recent Israeli attacks. Despite these concerns, radiation levels outside the complex are normal, signaling no immediate public danger.
The International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Director-General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, highlighted that uranium poses a significant health risk if inhaled or ingested. However, these risks can be mitigated through protective measures, such as the use of respiratory equipment when onsite. Grossi reassured that “the level of radioactivity outside the Natanz facility remains unchanged and at normal levels,” ensuring no radiological hazards affect the surrounding population and environment.
Grossi addressed a specially convened IAEA board session in Vienna, called by Russia, to discuss the Israeli actions against Iranian nuclear sites. He noted the absence of additional damage at both Natanz and the Isfahan nuclear research site since Saturday. However, he emphasized the threat posed by uranium hexafluoride, a highly toxic gas involved in uranium enrichment. This substance is known for its volatility and can cause skin burns and severe health issues if inhaled.
The IAEA has stressed the necessity for timely and ongoing technical updates about these nuclear sites. Grossi stressed that without such information, the agency cannot accurately evaluate the radiological conditions or offer the essential response measures. He confirmed that U.N. inspectors are on assignment in Iran and will conduct on-site inspections once the conditions are safe.
Grossi cautioned that “military escalation presents a substantial risk,” with the potential for radiological events having dire consequences for both the population and the environment. He also underscored the importance of pursuing diplomatic solutions to ensure Iran does not progress towards developing nuclear weapons.
A coalition of states, including Iran and Russia and represented by Venezuela, condemned the Israeli attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities during the board meeting. Diplomatic sources shared this information under the assurance of anonymity.
Satellite imagery analysis reveals significant damage to the Natanz site, with several buildings either severely damaged or destroyed, including structures critical for power supply to the facility. Grossi briefed the U.N. Security Council, indicating that the above-ground portion of Natanz was demolished, whereas the subterranean centrifuge facility did not appear directly impacted. He noted, however, that loss of power could have adverse effects on the internal infrastructure.
In addition to Natanz, a nuclear research facility in Isfahan was targeted. The IAEA reported damage to four key structures, including a facility pivotal to uranium conversion. Importantly, radiation levels at both Natanz and Isfahan remain stable and unaltered.
Confirmation was provided that no discernible damage occurred at the Fordo enrichment site, which is strategically located beneath a mountain and shielded with anti-aircraft defenses, though designed to endure aerial bombardments. Grossi also affirmed that neither the Bushehr nuclear power plant—the only commercial nuclear facility in Iran—nor the Tehran Research Reactor had been impacted or targeted during the attacks.
Under IAEA regulations, any board member from its 35-member contingent can request a meeting. Recently, for the first time in two decades, the IAEA board reported Iran as noncompliant with its nuclear commitments.