IAEA Confirms Contamination at Natanz After Israeli Strike
The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has confirmed that Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran’s Natanz nuclear site have caused internal radiological and chemical contamination. This marks a serious escalation in the ongoing shadow conflict between the two nations.
Contamination Limited to Inside the Facility
Grossi clarified in his briefing to the United Nations Security Council that the contamination is limited to internal areas of the facility. He stated, “There has been no measurable release of radioactive materials beyond the perimeter of the Natanz site.” The contamination involves alpha-emitting radioactive compounds and chemical agents used in uranium enrichment.
No Structural Damage to Underground Cascade Hall
Although Israel’s strike targeted the above-ground enrichment pilot site and associated power infrastructure, the primary underground cascade hall appears to have been spared from direct physical damage. However, Grossi raised concerns that damage to external power supplies might interrupt sensitive centrifuge operations, potentially affecting the stability of Iran’s uranium enrichment activities.
IAEA Monitoring Continues Amid International Concern
The IAEA remains in constant communication with Iranian authorities, with monitoring equipment confirming no rise in ambient radiation levels outside the facility. Grossi reiterated his warning that attacks on nuclear infrastructure violate international norms and called for immediate restraint. He also expressed readiness to visit the site for a more comprehensive assessment if permitted.
