US and Israel strike Iran’s Natanz nuclear site, raising concerns over non-proliferation safeguards

Tehran — On March 2, the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran’s Natanz nuclear enrichment facility, according to information reported in Dawn. The incident occurred just days into the ongoing conflict, targeting the underground fuel enrichment plant at Natanz, situated on the outskirts of Qom.

Initially, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) disputed reports of the attack. However, the agency later confirmed that the entrance buildings of the underground facility had sustained damage. The Natanz site, which operates under IAEA safeguards, is a key component of Iran’s nuclear programme.

This latest strike follows a similar attack several months earlier, which took place after a 12-day standoff between Iran and Israel. That previous incident also targeted the underground structures at the Natanz uranium enrichment site.

The repeated targeting of Iranian nuclear facilities, including Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan—all of which are under IAEA oversight—has raised significant concerns within the international community. Observers note that these actions set a new and troubling precedent in global nuclear politics, potentially undermining the system designed to ensure that nuclear programmes remain peaceful.

Reza Najafi, Iran’s envoy to the IAEA, condemned the attacks, stating: “Again, they attacked Iran’s peaceful safeguarded nuclear facilities yesterday. Their justification that Iran wants to develop nuclear weapons is simply a big lie.”

Analysts warn that such attacks could erode confidence in the international non-proliferation regime, as they challenge the effectiveness of the IAEA’s safeguards and oversight mechanisms. The situation continues to draw attention from governments and experts concerned about the stability and security of nuclear facilities worldwide.