Impact of U.S. Bombing on Iran's Fordow Nuclear Plant Under Scrutiny

The U.S. bombing of Iran's Fordow uranium enrichment plant has likely caused significant damage, according to the UN nuclear watchdog. The extent of the impact remains uncertain. The incident raises questions about Iran's enriched uranium stockpile and its adherence to international nuclear safeguards.

On Monday, Rafael Grossi, chief of the UN nuclear watchdog, stated that the recent U.S. bombing likely inflicted 'very significant' damage on Iran's Fordow uranium enrichment plant, though the exact extent is currently unknown.

The United States used its largest conventional bombs on Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow, marking the first use of these bunker-busting munitions in combat, to dismantle key sites. Grossi informed the International Atomic Energy Agency's Board of Governors that no one has fully assessed the underground damage at Fordow.

Since Israel's military strikes began, IAEA inspectors have been barred from entering Iran. Concerns remain about the status of over 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60% purity at Fordow. Iran has pledged to take special protective measures, consistent with its commitments under international nuclear agreements.

(With inputs from agencies.)