Israel says it attacked Iranian uranium enrichment centrifuge factory

Israel says it attacked Iranian uranium enrichment centrifuge factory

Israel has carried out a series of airstrikes on Iranian uranium enrichment facilities, resulting in significant damage to key components of Iran's nuclear program. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that the attacks have caused severe damage to centrifuges at Iran's Natanz uranium enrichment plant, potentially rendering them inoperable. The strikes also targeted critical supply chain components at Iran's Isfahan complex, including facilities crucial for uranium conversion and metallic uranium production.

The IAEA's director-general, Rafael Grossi, stated that the extensive damage at Natanz was a result of power cuts caused by the attack, which "completely destroyed" the plant's above-ground facility. Grossi noted that the loss of power was catastrophic, even without a direct hit on the underground centrifuge hall, and that "in great probability the centrifuges have been severely damaged if not destroyed altogether" [1].

The Israeli military has also targeted the Isfahan Nuclear Technology Centre, destroying four buildings, including facilities crucial for uranium conversion and metallic uranium production. While the Israeli military has not confirmed carrying out any strikes at the Fordo enrichment plant, the IAEA reported "very limited if any damage" registered there [2].

The Israeli military has stated that its large-scale air campaign is aimed at neutralizing the existential threat from Iran's nuclear program and missile array. The strikes come amid increasing tensions between Israel and Iran, with Iran accusing Israel of a "blatant violation of international law" and Israel alleging that Iran has taken steps to weaponize its stockpile of enriched uranium [3].

The attacks have raised concerns about the potential for further escalation and the impact on global nuclear non-proliferation efforts. The IAEA has urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint, warning that military escalation threatens lives and increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment.

References:
[1] https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/410139
[2] https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn9yll5yjx5o
[3] https://www.fdd.org/analysis/2025/06/16/natanz-may-have-imploded-israel-inflicts-damage-on-key-iranian-nuclear-facilities/