IAEA Warns of Possible Contamination at Iran's Natanz Nuclear Facility

**IAEA Warns of Possible Contamination at Iran's Natanz Nuclear Facility**

VIENNA — The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has issued a warning regarding the potential for both radiological and chemical contamination within Iran’s Natanz nuclear enrichment facility following a series of Israeli airstrikes. Although current radiation levels outside the complex remain normal, the implications of the attacks have raised significant concerns about safety and environmental risks.

On June 14, 2025, IAEA Director-General Rafael Mariano Grossi addressed an urgent session of the IAEA’s board, convened at the request of Russia to discuss the impact of Israeli military actions against Iranian nuclear installations. Grossi emphasized that while the external radiation poses no immediate danger to the public, the risk of exposure to uranium—if inhaled or ingested—remains a serious health concern. He stated, “The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no external radiological impact to the population or the environment from this event.”

However, Grossi underscored the dangers associated with a chemical gas known as uranium hexafluoride, which is produced during the enrichment process. This volatile substance can corrode materials, cause severe skin burns, and is particularly lethal when inhaled. Experts stress the importance of protective measures for personnel working inside the facility to mitigate these risks.

The IAEA has been closely monitoring the situation, with Grossi noting the necessity for the agency to receive timely information regarding the status of the facilities to accurately assess radiological conditions and the implications for public safety. He stated, “Without information, the U.N. agency cannot accurately assess the radiological conditions and potential impacts on the population and the environment.”

Satellite imagery provided by Planet Labs PBC has revealed extensive damage at the Natanz site, with multiple buildings identified as either destroyed or severely impacted. Grossi reported that the main centrifuge facility, located underground, appeared to be intact. However, the destruction of above-ground infrastructure could lead to complications affecting operations within the facility.

In addition to Natanz, Israeli strikes have targeted other nuclear sites in Iran, including a facility in Isfahan. The IAEA reported that four significant buildings at this site were also damaged. Despite these attacks, there have been no indications of increased radiation levels at either Natanz or Isfahan.

Concerns about military escalation were echoed in Grossi's remarks, highlighting the urgency of diplomatic solutions to prevent further conflict and potential radiological incidents. He warned, “Military escalation threatens lives, increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment, and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon.”

The geopolitical ramifications of these developments are significant, as they further complicate an already tense relationship between Iran and Israel, alongside international stakeholders. Countries such as Russia and Iran have condemned the Israeli attacks, calling for immediate action to address the threats posed by military aggression against nuclear facilities.

As the situation continues to unfold, the IAEA has pledged to maintain a presence in Iran to conduct inspections of nuclear facilities as soon as conditions allow. The board’s recent discussions reflect a growing concern about Iran's nuclear compliance, with the IAEA finding Iran in noncompliance with its nuclear obligations for the first time in two decades.

The outcome of these events could have profound implications for global security and nuclear non-proliferation efforts, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and dialogue among international powers.