The toxic conflict: UN nuclear agency flags possible radiological risks inside Iran's Natanz facility; no radiation leak outside
This satellite image provided by Maxar Technologies shows the Natanz nuclear enrichment facility, where multiple buildings were destroyed from recent Israeli airstrikes. (Pic credit: AP)
As Israel targeted Iran's main nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz amid escalating conflict, head of the UN nuclear watchdog agency said that there is a possibility of both radiological and chemical contamination there.
However, he asserted that the radiation levels outside the complex are normal.
Expressing concern over whether uranium is inhaled or ingested, International Atomic Energy Agency director-general Rafael Mariano Grossi said that it will pose a significant danger. However, he added that risk can be managed with effective measures.
"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," he said.
While addressing an urgent session of the IAEA's board in Vienna, he informed that no additional damage had been reported at Natanz and the Isfahan nuclear research site since Saturday.
However, he cautioned that uranium particles, particularly in the form of uranium hexafluoride gas used during enrichment, can be highly toxic if inhaled or ingested. The chemical is extremely volatile, corrosive, and can cause severe injuries on contact with skin or lungs.
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Grossi emphasised the need for appropriate protective measures for those working at the site, including respiratory equipment.
Satellite images confirm damage
Recent satellite images analysed by The Associated Press show extensive destruction at Natanz, including several buildings linked to power supply systems. Grossi confirmed that the above-ground portion of the Natanz complex was destroyed, although the underground centrifuge facility appeared to be intact.
He warned, however, that the loss of power may have caused unseen damage to sensitive infrastructure.
The Israeli strikes also targeted the nuclear research facility in Isfahan, damaging four critical buildings, including a uranium conversion plant. While no radiation leaks were detected at either site, the scale of the attack has raised global concerns.
In contrast, Iran's underground Fordo enrichment facility and the Bushehr nuclear power plant, the country's only commercial reactor, were reportedly unharmed.
The Tehran Research Reactor also remained unaffected.
Gaza: UN rights chief urges governments to 'wake up'
The United Nations' top human rights official on Monday issued a scathing rebuke of Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza, saying they are causing "horrifying, unconscionable suffering" for Palestinians. He called on world leaders to act urgently to halt the violence.
"The facts speak for themselves," said Volker Türk, the UN high commissioner for human rights, in a strongly worded address opening the latest session of the human rights council in Geneva. "Everyone in government needs to wake up to what is happening in Gaza. All those with influence must exert maximum pressure on Israel and Hamas, to put an end to this unbearable suffering."
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