IAEA chief Grossi: So far, no elevation of radiation levels above the usual background levels has been detected in countries bordering Iran

IAEA chief Grossi: So far, no elevation of radiation levels above the usual background levels has been detected in countries bordering Iran

IAEA Confirms No Elevated Radiation Levels in Iran’s Neighboring Countries Amid Regional Tensions

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that radiation levels in countries bordering Iran remain within normal background ranges, despite recent military strikes targeting Iranian nuclear infrastructure. Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi emphasized that no "radiological impact" has been detected externally, according to IAEA monitoring systems and data shared by regional authorities. This assessment aligns with updates from the IAEA's Incident and Emergency Centre, which has been tracking the situation since the escalation of hostilities in June 2025.

Grossi detailed that while attacks on sites such as Natanz and Esfahan have caused significant physical damage to enrichment facilities and chemical contamination internally, off-site radiation levels have not increased. For instance, at the Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant, uranium isotopes and chemical byproducts like Uranium Hexafluoride remain contained within the facility, posing localized risks but no external threat. Similarly, the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant—Iran's only operational reactor—has not experienced a radiological release, despite concerns over potential strikes on its power supply lines.

The IAEA has reiterated that attacks on nuclear infrastructure, even those not directly targeting reactors, pose severe safety risks. A direct hit on Bushehr or the Tehran Research Reactor could trigger catastrophic radioactive releases, necessitating large-scale evacuations and long-term environmental monitoring. However, as of now, such scenarios have not materialized.

Grossi called for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation, stressing that military actions delay critical inspections needed to verify Iran's compliance with safeguards agreements. The agency remains committed to resuming on-site inspections once security conditions permit, ensuring transparency over Iran's uranium stockpiles, including material enriched to 60% U-235.

While the absence of external radiation spikes reduces immediate public health concerns, the IAEA has underscored the economic and geopolitical risks of prolonged conflict. Disruptions to nuclear safety protocols and inspections could undermine global non-proliferation efforts and destabilize regional markets. For now, the agency continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for restraint to avert a nuclear crisis.