IAEA Chief Says Iran Nuclear Sites Sustained Limited Damage in Recent Strikes
By Marc Perelman
VIENNA – Limited damage has been observed at key Iranian nuclear sites following recent military actions, but radiation levels remain stable, according to Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Grossi spoke with FRANCE 24 on March 9, 2026, assessing the impact of the strikes attributed to Israel and the United States on Iran’s nuclear program.
Despite the conflict, Grossi emphasized that Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium and its nuclear expertise remain intact. “We will have to go back to a negotiating table,” he stated, signaling the need for renewed diplomatic efforts to address concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely, with Grossi indicating that while damage has been noted, it has been contained. No increase in radiation levels has been detected at the facilities inspected thus far.
The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and international concern over the potential for escalation. The IAEA plays a crucial role in verifying Iran’s compliance with international safeguards agreements and monitoring its nuclear activities. The agency’s reports are closely watched by governments worldwide as they assess the risks associated with Iran’s nuclear program.
This assessment underscores the resilience of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, even in the face of direct military pressure. While the immediate physical impact appears limited, the long-term implications for regional stability and the prospects for a diplomatic resolution remain significant.
