The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced today that there is a great risk of radiation and chemical contamination in the area of the Iranian uranium enrichment complex in Natanz, DPA reported, quoted by BTA.
The level of radiation outside the facility is normal, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi told the UN Security Council in New York. "However, there is both radiological and chemical contamination at the Natanz facility itself," Grossi stressed at the same time. According to him, it is possible that uranium isotopes are scattered throughout the facility.
"The radiation consists mainly of alpha particles, which pose a significant hazard if inhaled or absorbed. This risk can be effectively controlled with appropriate protective measures," explained the IAEA Director General.
The main concerns are related to the chemical toxicity at the facility, Grossi added. A few days ago, Israel attacked the uranium enrichment complex in Natanz.
Grossi also warned the UN Security Council about the risks of strikes on other sites, such as the Bushehr nuclear power plant, where tons of nuclear material are stored.
"I want to make it absolutely and completely clear that in the event of an attack on the Bushehr nuclear power plant, a direct strike would lead to a very large release of radiation into the environment. Similarly, a strike that damaged the only two power lines that feed the plant could have caused its reactor to melt, which could have caused a major radiation leak, Grossi said.