Israeli Airstrikes Damage Key Iranian Nuclear Sites

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that recent Israeli airstrikes have caused significant damage to several key Iranian nuclear sites, including the Fordow site and a major complex in Esfahan. The strikes, which occurred over nearly ten days, targeted critical infrastructure and equipment, disrupting ongoing nuclear activities. The IAEA's Director General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, stated that while the agency is still reviewing technical information, early findings suggest that the radiation risk remains low and there is no sign of radiation leaking from the affected sites.

The first wave of attacks hit the Esfahan nuclear complex on June 13, damaging four buildings, including a uranium conversion facility, a central chemical lab, a reactor fuel manufacturing unit, and a processing facility still under construction. On June 21, a second wave of strikes targeted six more structures at the same site, including a depleted uranium metal production plant, a fuel rod workshop, and a building used to make uranium pellets. Additional targets included two laboratories, a contaminated equipment unit, and an office building. A centrifuge workshop on-site was also struck separately that same day. None of the buildings struck were operational reactors, and most held either no radioactive material or very limited quantities.

The IAEA's public statement on June 22 confirmed that there was no increase in radiation levels outside the affected sites. The agency used satellite analysis and technical data from previous inspections to support its findings. Grossi emphasized that while localized exposure inside damaged buildings remains possible, the threat does not extend to nearby areas. The IAEA continues to monitor conditions and will release further updates as needed.

The Esfahan facility has long played a key role in Iran’s nuclear ambitions, supporting everything from fuel production to advanced equipment fabrication. Repeated strikes at this site raise concerns about the broader goals of the military campaign. Analysts suggest that Israel is focused on dismantling infrastructure without triggering a nuclear emergency. By hitting less-sensitive buildings, the strikes avoid radioactive fallout while still weakening operational capacity. Grossi responded with concern, stating that nuclear facilities should never be attacked under any circumstances and called on others to uphold global peace and protect nuclear regulations.

The IAEA will continue tracking developments across Iranian nuclear sites in the coming days. Field inspections, if allowed, may follow once the situation stabilizes. The Esfahan complex has suffered visible damage, and while none of the affected buildings posed a major radiation threat, long-term setbacks to Iran’s nuclear activities are likely. The agency’s next steps will include a deeper analysis of security footage, environmental data, and nuclear inventory logs. With no signs of contamination and all nuclear material accounted for, the IAEA’s immediate priority remains confirming site stability and ensuring safe containment across all affected zones.