Vienna, March 22: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that it is closely monitoring reports regarding a missile incident in Dimona, Israel. No damage has been detected to the sensitive nuclear research facility in the region.
In a statement on social media platform X, the agency acknowledged awareness of reports related to the missile’s impact in the city but stated that it found “no indications of damage to the Negev Nuclear Research Center,” which is widely associated with Israel’s nuclear program.
The IAEA further reported that, according to information from regional countries, no unusual radiation levels have been detected following the incident. Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized the need for “maximum military restraint,” particularly around nuclear facilities, to avoid any situation that could lead to a nuclear safety crisis.
This warning comes amid heightened tensions in the region and reports of new attacks on nuclear facilities in Iran. Earlier, the IAEA had stated that it received information from Iranian officials regarding an attack on the Natanz nuclear facility. The agency confirmed it is investigating the situation and has not received reports of increased radiation levels in surrounding areas.
Grossi reiterated the call for restraint and warned that ongoing military operations near nuclear sites could have severe and potentially irreversible consequences.
According to Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, the United States and Israel were responsible for the attack on the Natanz uranium enrichment facility earlier in the day. Iranian officials stated that there was no radioactive leakage and that residents in the vicinity are not in danger.
Reports indicate that Iranian nuclear facilities have been repeatedly targeted since the alleged joint U.S.-Israel operation began on February 28. Earlier this week, there were also reports of attacks near the Bushehr nuclear power plant along the Persian Gulf coast, marking the third such incident at nuclear-related sites, following attacks on Natanz and Isfahan.
Tehran has urged the IAEA to strongly condemn these actions, warning that continued attacks near nuclear facilities could create a “very serious and concerning situation” with global implications.