IAEA Reports Radiation Contamination at Natanz Following Israeli Airstrikes

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed the presence of radiation and chemical contamination at the Iranian uranium enrichment facility in Natanz, targeted in the recent Israeli military operation. During an urgent session of the UN Security Council in New York, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi announced that the above-ground section of the experimental plant, where Iran enriched uranium to 60% (U-235), has been completely destroyed. Fortunately, radiation levels outside the facility remain within normal ranges, indicating no immediate environmental threat

The Israeli offensive started on the night of June 13, targeting over 100 locations, including nuclear sites in Natanz and Isfahan, as well as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) headquarters in Tehran. The operation involved around 200 fighter jets, including advanced models such as F-35s, F-16s, and F-15s. The strikes resulted in the deaths of 78 individuals, including IRGC commander Hossein Salami, and left 329 others injured. Iranian media outlets, have confirmed the damage at Natanz, noting a localized radiation leak. However, the IAEA has verified that the underground enrichment facilities remain intact, although damage to the power supply may have affected some centrifuges.

In retaliation, Iran initiated Operation True Promise 3, launching between 150 to 200 ballistic missiles, including hypersonic Fatah-1s, aimed at Israel. Four fatalities were reported, along with 91 injuries, and damage occurred at the Kiryat military headquarters in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and Beersheba.

Iran’s UN Ambassador, Amir Saeed Iravani, condemned Israel’s actions as a “declaration of war”.