Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: International Atomic Energy Agency –
Early this morning, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was informed of a military operation launched by Israel that includes strikes on nuclear facilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
We are currently in contact with Iranian nuclear safety authorities to determine the status of the relevant nuclear facilities and to assess any broader nuclear safety and security implications. Iranian authorities have now confirmed that the Natanz uranium enrichment facility was hit and that no elevated radiation levels were detected there. They have also reported that the Isfahan and Fordow facilities have not been hit to date.
This development is deeply concerning. I have repeatedly stated that nuclear facilities should never be attacked, regardless of the context or circumstances, as this could cause harm to both the population and the environment. Such attacks have serious implications for nuclear safety, security and safeguards, as well as for regional and international peace and security.
In this regard, the IAEA refers to numerous General Conference resolutions on the issue of military attacks on nuclear facilities, including GC(XXIX)/RES/444 and GC(XXXIV)/RES/533, which, inter alia, state that “any armed attack or threat of attack against nuclear facilities used for peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, international law and the Statute of the Agency.”
Moreover, the IAEA has consistently emphasized that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities may result in radioactive releases with serious consequences both within and beyond the State attacked”, as noted in resolution GC(XXXIV)/RES/533.
As Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and in line with the purposes of the IAEA as set out in its Statute, I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation. I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the nuclear safety and security of nuclear facilities would have grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond.
Yesterday the Board of Governors made an important decisionresolutionon Iran’s safeguards obligations. In addition, the Council’s resolution emphasizes its support for a diplomatic solution to the problems caused by the Iranian nuclear program.
The IAEA continues to monitor the situation closely, stands ready to provide technical assistance, and remains committed to its nuclear safety, security and safeguards mandate in all circumstances. It stands ready to engage with all relevant parties to help ensure the protection of nuclear facilities and the continued peaceful use of nuclear technology in accordance with the Agency’s mandate, including by deploying Agency nuclear safety and security experts (in addition to our safeguards inspectors in Iran) where needed to ensure that nuclear facilities are fully protected and remain used exclusively for peaceful purposes.
I wish to inform the Council that I have informed the relevant authorities of my readiness to travel at the earliest opportunity to assess the situation and ensure nuclear safety, security and non-proliferation in Iran.
I am also in contact with our inspectors in Iran and Israel. The safety of our employees is of utmost importance. All necessary measures are taken to ensure that they are not harmed.
Despite the current military actions and heightened tensions, it is clear that the only sustainable path forward – for Iran, Israel, the entire region and the international community – is one based on dialogue and diplomacy to ensure peace, stability and cooperation.
As the international technical institution charged with overseeing the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, the International Atomic Energy Agency remains a unique and vital forum for dialogue, especially now.
In accordance with its Statute and long-standing mandate, the IAEA provides a framework and a natural forum where facts prevail over rhetoric and where engagement can replace escalation.
I reaffirm the Agency’s readiness to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts to promote transparency, safety, security and a peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran.
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