The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported on Tuesday that Israeli airstrikes on Iran had a noticeable effect on the underground strengthening hall at Natanz. This assessment was made following a careful review of high-resolution satellite images taken after the attack.
The IAEA noted on Social Platform X that its analysis revealed more details confirming the direct impact on the underground facility. However, they mentioned there haven’t been any significant changes linked to the attack at Tehran’s nuclear sites in Esfahan and Fordau.
According to IAEA Director Rafael Grossi, the attack resulted in damage to the facility’s electrical infrastructure, including the primary power supply building and an emergency substation. He addressed the government board on Monday, stating, “There were no noticeable physical damages to the underground cascade holes or the main fuel enrichment plants.” Still, Grossi pointed out that losing power to the cascade hole could potentially harm the centrifuges used there.
He expressed concern that nuclear safety was “compromised” due to the five-day offensive by the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) aimed at disrupting Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
On Tuesday, the IDF announced the death of a prominent Iranian military leader, Ali Shadmani, following a strike involving two F-14 fighter jets in Tehran, which was reportedly aimed at intercepting Israeli aircraft. Israel has advised approximately 300,000 residents of Tehran to evacuate in anticipation of further attacks.
Last week, the Israeli military targeted four buildings associated with Iran’s nuclear program, including facilities for uranium conversion and fuel production at their Isfahan site.
Grossi also acknowledged the cooperation between Iranian authorities and the IAEA, emphasizing the need for timely and consistent updates from Iran about its nuclear facilities during these complicated times. This information is essential for keeping the international community informed and prepared for any potential emergencies in Iran.
Furthermore, IAEA officials mentioned that inspectors on the ground were individually contacted to assess the radiological conditions following the airstrikes, highlighting concerns for both the local population and the environment.
This development coincides with increasing scrutiny on how the U.S. will respond amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The Trump administration has been involved in negotiations with Iranian officials regarding the nuclear program’s dismantlement. However, Iran has recently stepped away from discussions as strikes continued in the region. The president has not dismissed the idea of potential U.S. involvement in the situation.
