Background on the Situation
On June 13, Israel conducted an aerial attack targeting Iran’s key nuclear facilities: the Fordo enrichment center and the Natanz nuclear site. The attacks raised concerns about potential damage, radiation leaks, and the implications for regional stability.
Iran’s Nuclear Agency Response
Behrouz Kamalvandi, spokesperson for the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), reported that the attacks resulted in “limited damages” at both sites. He clarified that most of the damage was superficial, and there were no significant impacts on the underground centrifuge halls at either location.
Damage Assessment
- Fordo: The damage was not severe, according to Kamalvandi.
- Natanz: The damaged areas were primarily on the surface, with no significant impact on the underground centrifuge halls.
Radiation Concerns
Kamalvandi stated that there was a minor internal leak at Natanz, but it did not spread outside. He emphasized that there were no concerns regarding radiation contamination, thanks to the preemptive relocation of critical equipment and materials.
International Oversight
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has not reported any radiation increases or leaks at the targeted facilities, including the Isfahan Nuclear Research Center. The IAEA noted that levels remained normal following the attacks.
IAEA’s Report
- Isfahan Nuclear Research Center: The IAEA reported no increase in radiation levels outside the site following multiple attacks on June 13.
- Four critical buildings in Isfahan were reportedly damaged, including the Uranium Conversion Installation and the Fuel Rod Manufacturing Plant. However, no radiation increase was expected.
Key Questions and Answers
- What were the targets of the Israeli attacks? The Fordo enrichment center and Natanz nuclear site were the primary targets.
- What damages were reported by Iran’s nuclear agency? Most of the damage was superficial, with no significant impact on critical centrifuge halls.
- Were there any radiation leaks? According to Iran’s nuclear agency and the IAEA, there were no radiation leaks or increases in radiation levels.
- What was the extent of damage at the Isfahan Nuclear Research Center? Four critical buildings were reportedly damaged, but no radiation increase was expected.
