The US strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities caused major concerns as IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi warned of heavy damage at the Fordow enrichment plant. Using sophisticated bunker-buster bombs dropped by B-2 Spirit bombers, the US targeted Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan in a massive military operation that raised tensions even higher.
As reports of additional attacks emerged, Grossi urged restraint and called for renewed negotiations.
US Strikes Land Heavy Blow On Fordow Facility
During an emergency meeting in Vienna, IAEA head Rafael Mariano Grossi explained that the recent US strikes likely caused severe underground damage at the Fordow nuclear facility. “Given the explosive payload utilised and the extreme vibration-sensitive nature of centrifuges, very significant damage is expected to have occurred,” Grossi said. Moreover, he added, “No one can say at present how bad underground damage at Fordow is.”
IAEA Director:
1. “Based on satellite imagery, there are clear signs of “impact” observed at Iranian nuclear sites.”
2. “But as far as assessing the extent of the underground damage is concerned, we cannot make a statement.”
— Silja🏴☠️🇨🇦 🇫🇮 🇫🇷 🇮🇷 🇺🇦 Russia=Genocide (@SiljaLynx) June 22, 2025
Meanwhile, as Grossi addressed the emergency meeting, Iranian state television reported that attacks at Fordow continued. Consequently, Grossi stressed that the IAEA requires access to Iran’s nuclear sites to verify uranium stockpiles. “We must return to negotiations,” he urged, highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic talks. Additionally, he revealed that Iran informed him on June 13 of “special measures” taken to protect nuclear materials and equipment.
Iran’s Nuclear Sites in Crisis
The US strikes hit three key Iranian nuclear facilities, Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan, marking a major escalation in the conflict. President Donald Trump announced the operation on Truth Social, stating, “We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. All planes are now outside of Iran’s airspace. A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors. There is no other military in the World that could have done this. NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!”
Later, Trump reshared a post that declared the Fordow nuclear site “is gone.” At the same time, Grossi stressed the importance of allowing IAEA inspectors to return and verify uranium stockpiles, including the 400 kilograms enriched to 60 percent. With both sides standing firm, the international community now faces growing uncertainty over the next steps.
