Israel has targeted Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, with a focus on its underground uranium enrichment plants. The Natanz facility in central Iran has sustained severe damage, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Another site, Fordo, is buried deep in a mountain and requires more powerful “bunker busting” bombs.
Attacking Fordo poses significant risks. The IAEA describes military escalation as increasing the chance of a radiological release with serious consequences for people and the environment. Uranium enrichment sites are used to build up supplies of uranium-235, which is needed for nuclear reactors but requires higher levels of enrichment for nuclear weapons.
Nuclear power stations need about 3-5% enriched uranium to generate controlled nuclear reactions, while nuclear weapons require around 90%. A blast from a bomb would disperse radioactive fission products, causing localized health risks. The radiation doesn’t travel far, but people close to the site could breathe in or ingest uranium particles, causing damage.
Chemical exposure is also a concern, as the centrifuges releasing uranium hexafluoride gas can form strong acid if it comes into contact with moisture. While this incident would have a local impact, the IAEA’s Incident and Emergency Centre continues to monitor the status of Iran’s nuclear facilities and radiation levels at its sites.
The IAEA describes the attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities as “deeply concerning” due to the potential for radiological releases and environmental contamination. Military escalation increases these risks, making it essential to consider the consequences before taking action.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ykjvl1y9jo