The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has verified that the entrance buildings at Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility have suffered partial damage. This damage was observed in satellite images taken over the past two days, indicating the impact of the ongoing US-Israeli bombing campaign. The IAEA stated that while the Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant (FEP) entrance buildings were affected, there is no expected radiological consequence or additional impact within the FEP itself.
The Natanz facility was a key target during the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran in June. Despite reports suggesting nuclear site strikes in Iran during recent hostilities, the IAEA had initially played down these claims. However, Iran asserted that damage had occurred at least at one site, with conflicting statements between the IAEA and Iranian authorities regarding the extent of the impact on the Natanz nuclear site.
During an extraordinary session of the agency’s Board of Governors on Iran, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized the need for all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation. Grossi clarified that there was no evidence of damage to nuclear installations in Iran, including the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant and other key facilities, despite challenges in communication with Iran’s nuclear regulatory authorities amid the escalating conflict.
