Vienna – The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has sounded a grave warning over the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, cautioning that continued military escalation risks triggering a nuclear disaster and could derail already fragile diplomatic efforts.

Speaking during an emergency session of the IAEA Board of Governors on Monday, Grossi stated that the situation in the Middle East has reached a critical tipping point. The nuclear watchdog chief emphasized that the ongoing confrontation not only endangers lives but also risks compromising sensitive nuclear facilities in Iran.

"Military escalation threatens lives, increases the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment, and delays indispensable work towards a diplomatic solution for the long-term assurance that Iran does not acquire a nuclear weapon," Grossi warned.

Damage to Iranian Nuclear Facilities Confirmed

Grossi also provided a technical update on the condition of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure following a series of Israeli strikes, including a significant attack on Natanz – Iran's primary uranium enrichment site. While the underground portion of the facility escaped direct impact, a power outage from the assault may have damaged critical systems.

Radiation levels around Natanz reportedly remain within safe limits, with no external contamination detected, according to Grossi. “The level of radioactivity outside the Natanz site has remained unchanged and at normal levels,” he said.

Further attacks also affected four nuclear-related sites in Iran's Isfahan province. However, major facilities such as the Bushehr nuclear power plant, the Fordow enrichment site, and a reactor under construction have not sustained damage, the IAEA confirmed.

Iran Faces Internal Pressure as Lawmakers Eye NPT Exit

Inside Iran, political tensions are also on the rise. Lawmakers are reportedly drafting a bill that could push the country to withdraw from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) — a move that could deliver a significant blow to global nuclear oversight.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that the proposed legislation is still in its early stages and would need further deliberation. However, he reiterated Iran’s formal stance against pursuing nuclear arms, maintaining that Tehran remains committed to peaceful nuclear development.

The warning from the IAEA comes as hopes fade for a revival of nuclear talks, which have remained stalled since the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal under the Trump administration. Observers fear that a protracted conflict could lead to lasting damage not only to physical infrastructure but also to the diplomatic channels that have taken years to build.

IAEA personnel remain stationed in Iran and are prepared to resume full oversight as soon as security conditions permit, Grossi said.


By WafricNews Desk.