IAEA Confirms Stable Radiation Levels Following US Airstrikes on Iran's Nuclear Facilities
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced on Sunday that no unusual levels of radiation have been detected in areas surrounding Iran's nuclear facilities following recent U.S. airstrikes.
Through a brief message on the social media platform X, the UN nuclear watchdog confirmed, "The IAEA can confirm that no increase in off-site radiation levels has been reported as of this time." The agency also noted that additional evaluations will be conducted as more information becomes available.
This confirmation was released shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that American forces had executed precision strikes on Iran’s major nuclear enrichment sites—Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. Speaking from the White House, Trump described the operation as a "spectacular military success" and stated that the facilities were "completely and totally obliterated."
Trump further cautioned Tehran, urging it to opt for peace or risk facing more severe attacks in the future. "Iran the bully of the Middle East must now make peace," he stated, accompanied by senior officials including Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The U.S. strikes occurred amid more than a week of escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, raising concerns of potential regional conflict. Earlier in the week, satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies indicated increased activity around Iran’s Fordow facility, heightening international alarm.
The IAEA's confirmation that there is no immediate radiation hazard provides some reassurance amidst fears of environmental consequences. However, experts caution that the lasting effects on nuclear infrastructure and regional stability remain uncertain.
