The sender of the IAEA in response to Israel’s ongoing attacks on Iran has heightened international concerns. On Friday, IAEA head Rafael Grossi denounced the Israeli attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, stating “such facilities must never be attacked.” Grossi warned that there would be dangerous consequences for Iran, the Middle East, and indeed the world if nuclear security is breached.
Israel conducted targeted attacks against Iranian military and nuclear installations just hours before the remark. Iran retaliated, accusing the UN nuclear monitor’s silence as complicity. The tensions now risk spiraling out of control, with Tehran pledging to speed up its uranium enrichment and missile programs.
IAEA Calls for Maximum Restraint
Rafael Grossi informed IAEA board members that the situation was “deeply concerning.” He emphasized that any military intervention risking nuclear sites puts millions in danger. Grossi called for “maximum restraint” by all sides to avoid further escalation.
He also proposed going to Iran at once to gauge the extent of the damage and guarantee the safety of its nuclear program continuing. He added that the IAEA stands ready to enable technical discussions and foster transparency and non-proliferation objectives.
Iran Criticizes IAEA for Lying Low
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation reacted with a stinging retort. It condemned the IAEA for its silence over Israeli attacks and denounced this inaction as being “cooperation with the Zionist regime.” The statement termed the Israeli attacks a “defeat for the IAEA” and attributed the agency’s “unjustifiable shortcomings.
Tehran made it plain that it views such attacks as justification for continuing with its nuclear and missile plans. “The world now better understands Iran’s insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology, and missile power,” the government stated.
Hamas Calls Strikes a Dangerous Escalation
Palestinian militant movement Hamas also denounced the Israeli attacks. Hamas, in its statement, referred to the strikes as a “dangerous escalation” that may destabilize the region. Hamas said Iran is now “paying the price for its steadfast stance” in defense of the Palestinian cause.
Watershed for Nuclear Diplomacy?
Rafael Grossi’s urgent message adds weight to fears that a broader conflict could follow. With Israel acting militarily and Iran vowing retaliation, global diplomacy faces a critical test. The IAEA’s role now hinges on de-escalation and rebuilding trust among all parties.
Whether Rafael Grossi’s offer to visit Iran succeeds may shape the future of nuclear oversight in the region.