US Strikes Inflict Heavy Damage on Iran's Fordow Nuclear Facility
The underground uranium enrichment plant at Fordow, Iran, has suffered significant damage following the recent use of the largest conventional bombs in the US arsenal. These bunker-busting munitions were employed in combat for the first time during airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear sites.
IAEA Highlights Challenges in Assessing Impact
Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), revealed on Monday that the extent of the damage to Fordow's deeply fortified underground areas remains unclear. Inspectors have been unable to access the site due to ongoing regional military activity, including Israeli strikes that began on June 13.
Grossi explained, "No one, including the IAEA, can yet fully assess the underground damage at Fordow." Considering the size of the explosive payload and the delicate nature of the centrifuges inside, the agency expects the damage to be "very significant."
Concerns Over Enriched Uranium Stockpile
A critical point of uncertainty lies with the status of over 400 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60% at Fordow, which is alarmingly close to weapons-grade levels set at approximately 90%. According to IAEA estimates, this quantity is sufficient to produce around nine nuclear weapons if further enriched.
Despite international concerns, Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful and does not intend to develop atomic weapons. In response to the recent military actions, Iran notified the IAEA on June 13 of plans to implement "special measures" aimed at safeguarding its nuclear materials and equipment under regulatory protections established by the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Ongoing Geopolitical Tensions Restrict Inspections
The IAEA's inability to conduct inspections since mid-June underscores the escalating tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear activities. The situation leaves the international community struggling to verify the full impact of the strikes and the current status of Iran's nuclear assets at Fordow.
Summary of Key Points:
- US deployed largest conventional bombs to target Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow.
- Damage to underground enrichment halls at Fordow is expected to be extensive but unverified.
- Fordow holds more than 400 kg of uranium enriched up to 60%, close to weapons-grade level.
- IAEA inspections have been suspended due to ongoing regional conflict and security concerns.
- Iran has declared intent to protect its nuclear program and denies any weaponization plans.
