• Israel's airstrikes on Natanz destroyed the above-ground enrichment facility.
• IAEA reports confirmed internal radioactive and chemical contamination at the site.
• No external radiation risks have been detected following the strikes.
• Iran's officials claim a right to self-defense and vow retaliation.
• The situation complicates ongoing nuclear deal negotiations.

Israeli airstrikes on the Natanz nuclear facility have resulted in the destruction of its above-ground enrichment infrastructure, significantly impacting Iran's uranium enrichment activities. The facility is crucial for Tehran's nuclear program, which Iran maintains is aimed solely at peaceful energy production. However, Western nations and Israel accuse Iran of attempting to develop nuclear weapons capabilities, intensifying scrutiny and military responses against it, according to trtglobal.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that the strikes caused internal radiological contamination but confirmed no danger to public safety as external radiation levels remained normal. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi stated, "There is radioactive and chemical contamination at the site," indicating damage to the power infrastructure, which may have affected the functioning of centrifuges, as detailed by newsweek and Reuters.

During a related meeting at the United Nations Security Council, Grossi reiterated concerns regarding military actions against nuclear facilities, emphasizing that “nuclear facilities must never be attacked, regardless of the context or circumstances,” according to indiatimes.

In response to the airstrikes, Iranian officials have declared their intent to counterattack and affirm their right to respond proportionately under international law. Iran's Foreign Minister emphasized that Israel had "crossed every red line," propelling fears of escalating conflicts in the region, as reported by Reuters and newsweek.

The timing of these attacks complicates diplomatic negotiations for a renewed nuclear deal, as tensions rise between Iran and Israel, potentially risking wider regional instability. Israel has articulated its commitment to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, viewing such a development as an existential threat, according to indiatimes.