Vienna, March 2 (.) The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed on Monday that, so far, no attacks have occurred on any of Iran’s nuclear facilities, despite claims by the United States and Israel. However, the agency warned that the risk of radioactive leakage cannot be ruled out amid ongoing military strikes in the region.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told the agency’s 35-member Board of Governors that there is “no indication that any of the nuclear installations have been damaged or hit.” He added that no radiation levels above normal background have been detected in countries bordering Iran.
“The situation today is very concerning. We cannot rule out a possible radioactive release with serious consequences, including the necessity to evacuate areas as large or larger than major cities,” Grossi said. He stressed the need to return to diplomacy and negotiations to resolve the crisis.
“Efforts to contact the Iranian nuclear regulatory authorities continue, with no response so far,” he said.
“We must return to diplomacy and negotiations,” he further said.
Grossi said the IAEA is actively monitoring the situation through its Incident and Emergency Centre (IEC) and is prepared to provide immediate technical assistance to member states in the event of nuclear safety violations. He noted that communication with the region has been hampered due to the ongoing conflict.
Regarding Iran’s nuclear facilities, the IAEA confirmed no evidence of damage at the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, Tehran Research Reactor, or other nuclear fuel cycle installations. Efforts to contact Iran’s nuclear regulatory authority are ongoing, but no response has been received.
Grossi also highlighted the broader regional risks, pointing out that several countries operate nuclear power plants and research reactors, including four active reactors in the UAE and research reactors in Jordan and Syria.
He referenced UN General Assembly resolutions, emphasizing that nuclear facilities should never be targeted, as attacks could lead to severe radioactive releases affecting areas far beyond national borders.
“Diplomacy is difficult, but not impossible. Nuclear diplomacy is even harder, but not impossible. We must return to the negotiating table as soon as possible,” Grossi said, reiterating the need for a long-term solution to Iran’s nuclear programme.
. .