The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has said it has no confirmed evidence that Iran’s nuclear facilities were damaged in the latest US–Israeli strikes, even as Tehran insists that at least one key installation was targeted. The conflicting claims have added to uncertainty surrounding the scale and impact of the ongoing military escalation.
According to the UN nuclear watchdog, monitoring data and initial assessments do not indicate direct strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, and there have been no reports of abnormal radiation levels. The agency said it continues to closely monitor the situation and remains in contact with Iranian authorities as military operations continue.
Conflicting claims emerge over possible damage to Natanz facility
Iran, however, has strongly challenged the IAEA’s assessment. Iranian officials say that joint US–Israeli attacks struck the Natanz uranium enrichment facility, one of the country’s most important nuclear installations. Tehran has accused Washington and Tel Aviv of targeting what it described as peaceful nuclear facilities under international safeguards and called for global condemnation of the attacks.
My statement to the special session of the @IAEAorg Board on Governors this morning on the situation in the Middle East.https://t.co/R8z6qasLhA pic.twitter.com/RMCgTjuumd
— Rafael Mariano Grossi (@rafaelmgrossi) March 2, 2026
The Natanz site plays a central role in Iran’s uranium enrichment programme and has long been viewed by Israel and the United States as a critical component of Tehran’s nuclear capabilities. Any confirmed damage to the facility could significantly affect Iran’s nuclear activities and further heighten tensions in the region.
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The IAEA said verification remains difficult due to the ongoing conflict and restricted access to some locations. The agency has emphasised the importance of protecting nuclear facilities during military operations to avoid potential safety risks.
The differing accounts from the IAEA and Iran highlight the uncertainty surrounding the true extent of the strikes, as independent confirmation remains limited. With hostilities between Iran, Israel and the United States continuing, concerns are growing about the potential consequences for nuclear safety and regional stability.
