Key Facts
• June 13, 2025: Israel attacked Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility, causing power outages.
• IAEA Director Rafael Grossi reported severe damage to centrifuges but not total destruction.
• The attack destroyed the surface-level Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant (PFEP).
• Underground cascade halls were not directly hit but lost power, likely damaging centrifuges.
• Centrifuges enrich uranium to 60%, close to the 90% needed for weapons.
• Isfahan nuclear site also suffered damage to four buildings, including a uranium conversion facility.
• Israel claims the attacks aim to prevent Iran’s nuclear weapon development.
• Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and condemns the attacks.
• Over 220 Iranians and 24 Israelis reportedly killed in retaliatory strikes.
• IAEA confirmed no radiation leaks outside affected facilities.
• June 12, 2025: IAEA formally declared Iran in violation of nuclear non-proliferation obligations.
• Iran has stockpiled uranium enriched to 60%, enough for nine nuclear weapons.
• 2018: U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal, leading to Iran’s enrichment escalation.
Summary
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed significant damage to Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility following a June 13, 2025, Israeli attack. The assault caused power outages, likely damaging centrifuges used to enrich uranium to 60%, nearing weapons-grade levels. Surface facilities were destroyed, while underground cascade halls remained intact but affected by power loss. Additional strikes on Isfahan damaged four nuclear-related buildings. Israel claims the attacks aim to halt Iran’s nuclear weapon development, while Iran maintains its program is peaceful and condemns the actions as violations of international law. Retaliatory strikes have resulted in over 220 Iranian and 24 Israeli deaths. The IAEA continues monitoring radiation levels, reporting no external leaks. This escalation follows Iran’s breach of the 2015 nuclear deal after the U.S. withdrawal in 2018, with Iran now possessing uranium sufficient for nine nuclear weapons.
