IAEA Chief Grossi warns of nuclear safety risks from attacks on Iran's facilities

The United Nations Security Council convened on June 21, 2025, to discuss the escalating tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear facilities, particularly in light of recent attacks attributed to Israel. Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), provided a detailed briefing on the current situation, emphasizing the significant risks posed to nuclear safety and security in Iran.

Grossi reported that attacks on Iran's nuclear sites have severely compromised safety measures, although no radiological release affecting the public has occurred thus far. The IAEA has been closely monitoring these developments since the onset of the attacks a week prior. He outlined the damage inflicted on key facilities, including the Natanz enrichment site, where critical infrastructure was destroyed, and contamination concerns were raised due to the presence of uranium isotopes.

At the Natanz site, both the main fuel enrichment plant and the pilot fuel enrichment plant sustained extensive damage. While external radiation levels remained normal, Grossi warned of potential internal contamination and the associated health risks. He also noted that the Fodou enrichment location, which enriches uranium to 60%, has not reported any damage.

The briefing highlighted the impact of attacks on other facilities, including the Esfahan Nuclear Site, where multiple buildings were damaged, and the COMDA heavy water research reactor, which was not operational at the time of the attack. Grossi stressed that the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant poses the highest risk, as an attack there could lead to a catastrophic release of radioactivity.

Grossi reiterated the IAEA's commitment to maintaining a presence in Iran and resuming inspections as soon as safety conditions allow. He emphasized the importance of protecting nuclear materials and ensuring that Iran adheres to its safeguards obligations. The Director General called for maximum restraint from all parties involved, warning that military escalation could jeopardize diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

In conclusion, Grossi urged the international community to support constructive dialogue and timely communication regarding the status of nuclear facilities. He expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution that could avert a nuclear crisis in the Middle East, underscoring the IAEA's role in ensuring nuclear nonproliferation and safety. The meeting concluded with a call for cooperation to mitigate the risks associated with the ongoing conflict.