UN Nuclear Agency Raises Alarm: Potential Contamination Risks at Iran’s Natanz Site Following Israeli Strikes

Concerns Over Iran’s Nuclear Facilities After Recent Attacks

The head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog raised alarms about potential contamination at Iran’s Natanz nuclear enrichment site following recent Israeli strikes. While radiation levels outside the facility remain normal, the risks inside cannot be ignored.

Rafael Mariano Grossi, the director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), emphasized that inhaling or ingesting uranium can be harmful. He stated that proper protective measures, such as respiratory devices, can help manage these risks.

In an urgent session of the IAEA board in Vienna called by Russia, Grossi mentioned no significant damage was reported at Natanz or the Isfahan nuclear site since the attacks. However, he pointed out that uranium hexafluoride—a gas produced during enrichment—is highly toxic and can cause severe health issues if inhaled.

He stressed the importance of timely information about these facilities. Without it, the IAEA cannot effectively assess the situation or provide necessary support to the affected areas.

U.N. inspectors will remain in Iran and will conduct inspections when safety allows. Grossi warned that military actions not only endanger lives but could also lead to serious environmental consequences. Moreover, such conflicts could hinder diplomatic efforts to ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons.

Venezuela, speaking on behalf of several countries including Iran and Russia, condemned Israel’s actions. Satellite images analyzed by the Associated Press revealed significant damage to Natanz, with several structures, including power supply buildings, impacted. The core underground centrifuge facility appeared unaffected, although the loss of power may have caused other problems.

Israel also targeted a nuclear research facility in Isfahan, damaging four critical buildings without any signs of increased radiation. The Fordo enrichment site, well-protected by a mountain and anti-aircraft defenses, reportedly remained intact. Additionally, Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant and the Tehran Research Reactor have not been impacted.

Recent data shows a shift in the IAEA’s stance on Iran’s nuclear compliance, marking the first finding of noncompliance in two decades. This development could escalate tensions and complicate future negotiations.

In light of these events, public sentiment has turned critical, with many expressing concerns on social media about the potential for escalating conflict and the global nuclear security landscape.

For expert insights, analysts suggest that ongoing monitoring and transparent communication between nations are essential to prevent misunderstandings and manage risks associated with nuclear facilities effectively.

For further details, you can check the IAEA’s official updates.

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