The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), confirmed on Saturday that no damage has been observed at two of Iran’s key nuclear facilities — the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant and the Khondab heavy water reactor. These sites had been of global concern following Israel’s recent airstrikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure.
Additionally, the IAEA stated that there had been no further damage reported at Natanz, another sensitive nuclear site that was struck during the Israeli attacks. According to their latest assessments, there has been no increase in off-site radiation levels, which helps ease fears of a nuclear disaster in the region.
However, the agency noted that four critical buildings at Iran’s Isfahan nuclear site were damaged. These included a uranium conversion facility and a fuel plate fabrication plant, both of which are vital to Iran’s nuclear program. Still, the IAEA reassured the international community that radiation levels around the site remain normal and pose no threat to public health.
Earlier, Iranian officials informed the IAEA that there was no change in radiation levels near Isfahan despite the strikes. This aligns with the agency’s own monitoring data, which suggests that while physical damage occurred, it did not compromise the safety of the nuclear material stored at the site.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the IAEA emphasized that they are closely monitoring the situation and remain in direct contact with Iranian authorities. They urged all sides to avoid actions that could risk the safety of nuclear facilities and escalate regional tensions.
These latest developments come amid rising conflict between Israel and Iran, with international observers warning of the danger to civilian lives and critical infrastructure. The IAEA’s confirmation of no radiation leaks provides some relief, but the risk of further escalation still looms large.