IAEA Chief Urges Halt to Iran Attacks, Warns of Nuclear Proliferation Risk

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has urged for a halt to attacks on Iran, emphasizing the need for inspections to resume. This call comes after the United States conducted strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities using stealth bombers and bunker-busting bombs. The Director General warned that the global framework aimed at preventing nuclear proliferation is at risk of collapsing.

The extent of damage to Iran's primary uranium enrichment facility, Fordow, remains uncertain. Iran has informed the IAEA that radiation levels outside the three targeted facilities have not increased. The Director General stressed the importance of resuming negotiations and ending hostilities to allow IAEA inspectors to monitor Iran's nuclear facilities and verify uranium stocks, including 400 kilograms of 60% enriched uranium.

IAEA inspectors are currently in Iran and must be allowed to carry out their duties. The Director General noted that the Isfahan nuclear facility, which is Iran's sole site for converting uranium into feedstock for centrifuges, has sustained damage to several buildings, including those related to uranium conversion processes. The entrances to tunnels used for storing enriched uranium also appear to have been targeted. Centrifuges can enrich low-enriched uranium into weapons-grade uranium.

Iran has requested an emergency meeting, marking the third such request since the start of bombings on June 13th and the first since the U.S. President ordered strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. The Director General's call for a cessation of hostilities and a return to diplomacy comes as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate. The situation remains fluid, with both sides exchanging accusations and warnings. The international community has called for restraint and a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. The Director General's remarks underscore the urgent need for a de-escalation of tensions and a return to negotiations to prevent further damage to the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.