Vienna/Tehran (Horn post) — The International Atomic Energy Agency has confirmed that Iran’s Khondab heavy water facility sustained significant damage and is currently non-operational following strikes earlier this week but said no nuclear contamination or casualties have been reported.
In a statement released on Sunday, the UN nuclear watchdog said its assessment—based on independent analysis of satellite imagery and technical knowledge of the site—indicates that the facility in northwestern Iran suffered “severe damage” during the attacks.
The Khondab site, associated with heavy water production and nuclear research, was struck at least twice, according to Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, which reported the incidents on Friday.
Verified footage circulating at the time showed fireballs and thick smoke rising near the reactor area within the complex, suggesting a direct impact on key infrastructure.
Despite the scale of the damage, the IAEA said there was no indication of radioactive release. The agency noted that the site did not contain any declared nuclear material at the time of the attack, reducing the risk of environmental contamination.
Israeli authorities had earlier issued evacuation warnings for the facility prior to the strike, according to regional reports, though Israel has not publicly detailed the operational specifics of the attack.
The development comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with increased concerns over the safety of nuclear-related infrastructure during periods of military confrontation.
The IAEA said it would continue monitoring the situation closely and called for the protection of nuclear facilities in line with international safety standards, warning that any damage to such sites carries potential risks for both human safety and the environment.
Analysts say the incident underscores the growing vulnerability of strategic infrastructure in conflict zones, even as authorities emphasize that no immediate nuclear hazard has been detected.
Pictures:
Prepared by: Horn Post Staff
Contact: info@hornpost.com
Website: www.hornpost.com
