Iran acknowledges internal radioactive contamination at its Natanz nuclear site following an Israeli airstrike, but claims no radiation has leaked beyond the facility.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization has officially confirmed that radioactive contamination occurred within the Natanz uranium-enrichment facility following an Israeli airstrike, though authorities maintain that the incident presents no danger to the public.
The announcement follows Israel’s airstrike on Thursday night targeting key Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure. Among the targets was the Natanz complex, a centerpiece of Iran’s nuclear enrichment operations.
The Israeli Minister of War declared a state of emergency as footage of the attacks surfaced across social media, showing blasts in Tehran and surrounding regions. Dozens of foreign governments, reportedly forewarned of the strikes, had already begun withdrawing diplomatic personnel from embassies in the Middle East.
In a televised statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the operation, asserting, “Iran has produced enough highly enriched uranium for nine atom bombs, nine. In recent months, Iran is taking steps that it has never taken before—steps to weaponize this enriched uranium. And if not stopped, Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in a very short time.”
Tehran has now confirmed that parts of the Natanz complex sustained damage and that contamination was detected within the facility. However, Iranian authorities, citing internal assessments, insist no radioactive or chemical material escaped into the surrounding environment.
The Sharjah 24 news outlet reported that Iran’s official IRNA news agency conveyed no casualties among Natanz personnel and stated that investigations are ongoing to evaluate the full extent of damage. The organization’s report claimed that containment protocols were successful and emphasized “no public risk.”
Additionally, Iran’s Ministry of Communications announced nationwide internet restrictions in the immediate aftermath of the attacks. The state-run ISNA news agency reported that the blackout is temporary and intended to “stabilize the situation.”
Thursday night’s strike marked the second major attack by Israeli forces on Iranian targets in under 48 hours. Netanyahu’s office has said the campaign could last up to two weeks. Iran, meanwhile, has vowed retaliation but has not disclosed the form or timing of its response.
The international community remains on high alert as tensions escalate between the two regional powers. Observers say further strikes could imperil any chance of diplomatic resolution to Iran’s nuclear standoff.