The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, called Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Friday to discuss the aftermath of Israel’s airstrikes on Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility. According to Israeli media reports, the strike caused severe damage to the site. Grossi expressed deep concern, emphasizing that nuclear facilities must never be attacked, regardless of the context, as such actions could harm both people and the environment. He also warned that these attacks have serious implications for nuclear safety, security, and regional stability.
“Radiation levels outside the Natanz facility remained unchanged, and the radioactive contamination inside, mainly alpha particles, can be managed with appropriate protective measures,” Grossi stated. However, he stressed that the incident is deeply troubling and that any military action posing risks to nuclear facilities could lead to grave consequences. He urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. The IAEA Director General reiterated his call for a peaceful resolution and a return to diplomatic channels.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote to Grossi, requesting an explicit condemnation of Israel’s actions and demanding a response from the IAEA. He highlighted Iran’s commitment to protecting its nuclear equipment and materials, stating that the Islamic Republic will deliver a decisive response to the act of aggression. The foreign ministry also called for an emergency IAEA Board of Governors meeting to address the situation and take necessary actions to uphold nuclear safeguards and security.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that their strike targeted the Natanz facility, which is the largest uranium enrichment site in Iran. The site is critical for Iran’s nuclear program, housing multi-story centrifuge halls and supporting infrastructure. The IDF stated that the underground area, including electrical rooms and centrifuge systems, was damaged. They emphasized that the strike aimed to disrupt Iran’s ongoing efforts to develop nuclear weapons, targeting infrastructure essential for continuous operations. The IDF provided detailed information on the strike, highlighting its significance in the broader context of the Israel-Iran conflict.