Iran's key nuclear sites remain largely intact following Friday's Israeli attack, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Director-General Rafael Grossi confirmed this during a recent governors' meeting.


While above-ground structures at the Natanz uranium enrichment site were destroyed, the critical underground facilities appear untouched. Grossi stated, "No additional damage" has occurred at Natanz since the initial Friday strike.

He specifically noted "no indication of a physical attack on the underground cascade hall" where a significant portion of enrichment takes place. This contradicts earlier Israeli military claims of damage to the underground area.

The Fordow enrichment site, concealed deep within a mountain, also seems unaffected. Despite being targeted by Israel, Grossi reported, "No damage has been seen" at this highly protected facility.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the attack aimed to pre-empt a secret Iranian nuclear bomb program. Achieving a warhead would necessitate enriching uranium to 90%.

Iran operates two primary enrichment sites: Natanz and Fordow. The IAEA previously indicated Iran possesses enough 60%-enriched uranium to produce nine nuclear bombs if enrichment continued.

The main Natanz facility, located 8-12 meters underground, is believed to withstand most Israeli weaponry. However, satellite imagery confirms severe damage to the more vulnerable above-ground pilot plant.

Electricity infrastructure at Natanz, including a substation and power supplies, was also destroyed. Grossi suggested the resulting power loss "may have damaged the centrifuges there."

Concerns about "radiological and chemical contamination" at Natanz, possibly including a uranium leak, were raised. While a risk if inhaled or ingested, Grossi believes it manageable with protective gear.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/16/iran-nuclear-sites-natanz-isfahan-fordow-israel-attack