IAEA: Iran Nuclear Program Experiences Major Damage

Iran's nuclear facility at Fordow. (PHOTO NASA FIRMS via Wikimedia Commons)

JAKARTA - Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi said Iran's nuclear program "went heavy damage" after the recent US and Israeli attacks.

"The attack, which began on June 13, resulted in significant physical damage in three main locations: Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow where Iran concentrated most of its uranium enrichment and conversion activities," Grossi said.

Underlining that there are other nuclear facilities that are not affected, it describes the damage that exists "very significant."

"It is true that, with its reduced capacity, it will be much more difficult for Iran to continue (the nuclear program) at the speed they maintain," he said.

Grossi also said the centrifuge at the Fordow nuclear facility was "no longer operating".

"We cannot fully assess, and no one can say for sure how severe the damage is. However, we already know that, given the power of the weapon and the technical characteristics of the centrifuge, we know that this centrifuge is no longer operating," he said.

"This is a machine with a complicated position, there is a rotor, there is a component, so the damage is definitely total," explained Gressi.

When asked about Iran's decision to stop cooperation with the IAEA, Grossi voiced "major concern," and stressed Iran could not unilaterally suspend their cooperation.

The presence of the IAEA in Iran is not due to generosity. This is an international responsibility. Iran is a signator of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, and therefore, must comply with the inspection system," he said.

The IAEA boss emphasized the consequences if Iran refuses to provide access to the examiner. "There is a possibility that the dialogue will continue, inspections will continue," he said.