Radiation Risks of Iran’s Nuclear Facilities?

The recent Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities have raised significant concerns about potential environmental and public health risks. Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, highlighted the presence of uranium hexafluoride—a toxic and corrosive gas used in uranium enrichment processes—which poses serious hazards if released. The IAEA warned that the conflict between two Member States could result in unpredictable radiological consequences, with nuclear safety being compromised.

Damage to Nuclear Facilities

The strikes have caused damage to several Iranian nuclear sites, including the Natanz and Isfahan facilities. The above-ground section of the Natanz Fuel Enrichment Plant was destroyed in the Friday attack. The facility had been producing uranium enriched up to 60% U-235. Its electricity infrastructure—including an electrical substation, the main power supply building, emergency power systems, and backup generators—was also destroyed. The resulting power loss to the underground cascade hall, which houses parts of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant and the main Fuel Enrichment Plant, may have damaged the centrifuges.

At the Isfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4-to-EU metal processing facility, which was still under construction.

Assessment of the IAEA

The IAEA emphasized the importance of returning to these sites for thorough inspections. According to the agency: “Considering the type of nuclear material at this facility, it is possible that uranium isotopes contained in uranium hexafluoride, uranyl fluoride, and hydrogen fluoride are dispersed inside the facility. The radiation, primarily consisting of alpha particles, poses a significant danger if uranium is inhaled or ingested. The main concern inside the facility is the chemical toxicity of the uranium hexafluoride and the fluoride compounds generated upon contact with water.”

Environmental Risk

Radiation does not remain localized; it spreads through air and water, triggering cascading effects. Contamination can last for decades or even centuries and may alter how ecosystems function. High levels of radiation can cause death, disease, and the extinction of local plant and animal species.

Iran’s nuclear program includes key facilities located in Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. These sites are either deep underground or situated in urban or ecologically sensitive zones. Any military strike requires precision weaponry and often involves penetrating munitions designed to reach subterranean targets. The use of such force carries immense risks, particularly if enriched uranium or radioactive materials are released into the environment. If released—either by explosion or fire—radiation could contaminate the air, soil, and water systems, and severely harm flora and fauna.

Health and Humanitarian Risks

According to the World Health Organization, children are especially vulnerable to the adverse effects of radiation exposure. Such exposure can lead to increased rates of cancer, birth defects, and chronic illnesses lasting years or even decades. Radiation poisoning may result in kidney damage, burns, hemorrhages, and death. Individuals exposed to high doses may also suffer from skin damage, including burns, blisters, and ulcers.

Millions could be displaced by the invisible threat of radiation. The term “nuclear refugees”—coined after the Chernobyl disaster—could tragically become a reality in the Middle East.

Regional Ecological Ripple Effects

The Middle East’s arid climate and chronic water scarcity amplify the potential ecological consequences. Groundwater contamination would be especially devastating, as many communities depend on limited and vulnerable aquifers. Fallout carried by wind could reach neighboring countries, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, the Gulf States, and even parts of Central Asia.

While the International Atomic Energy Agency has not yet reported increased radiation levels, the immediate environmental risks from the strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities appear to be contained. However, the potential for localized contamination remains a serious concern.