Centrifuge Damage at Iran's Natanz Plant Confirmed by Nuclear Watchdog

The International Atomic Energy Agency has revealed that recent Israeli airstrikes likely destroyed or severely damaged centrifuges at Iran's Natanz nuclear facility, raising tensions in the region and prompting international calls for restraint.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Rafael Grossi, has reported that the centrifuges at Iran's underground uranium enrichment facility in Natanz have likely sustained severe damage or been destroyed following Israeli airstrikes last Friday. Grossi briefed member states in Vienna, indicating that while the underground halls were not directly hit, the blackout caused by the strikes likely led to significant issues for the centrifuges that enrich uranium.

The Israeli military claimed the operation aimed to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons and resulted in the deaths of nine Iranian nuclear scientists. In response, Iran asserted that its nuclear activities are entirely peaceful and has urged the IAEA to condemn Israel's actions. Subsequently, Iran has experienced ongoing Israeli military actions, as indicated by recent Israeli defense alerts in parts of Tehran.

Grossi sad the aerial attack led to complete destruction of the above-ground Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, where centrifuges were enriching uranium up to 60% purity—close to the 90% required for weapons-grade uranium. Although the main underground centrifuge halls appeared unaffected, Grossi noted the possibility of damage due to power loss impacting operations.

Further analysis revealed that while four buildings were damaged at Iran's Isfahan nuclear site, radiation levels outside the facilities remained stable and within normal ranges. Despite uncertainty regarding the extent of damage at the Fordo enrichment plant, Grossi insisted there was "very limited if any damage registered" at that location.

Iran's Foreign Minister condemned the strikes as a violation of international law, asserting that the country’s missile responses to Israel were defensive measures. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 220 fatalities in Iran and 24 in Israel since the escalation of strikes.

These events come in the backdrop of a recent IAEA resolution declaring Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations, with restrictions on uranium enrichment being significantly transgressed since the US's withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal. As tensions rise, the need for diplomatic dialogue and de-escalation has become more pressing to prevent further military engagement and potential nuclear proliferation.