In brief
Director Rafael Grossi confirms that centrifuges at Fordo are "no longer operational" following U.S. military strikes, indicating significant damage from bunker-buster bombs.
Centrifuges at Iran's Fordo uranium enrichment facility have been rendered "no longer operational" following a U.S. airstrike, according to Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Speaking on French radio, Grossi discussed the challenges of assessing damage using only satellite imagery, but emphasized that the type of bombs used—bunker-busters—would inevitably lead to substantial destruction. Grossi explained that these centrifuges, which are critical in the enrichment process, require precise engineering and are especially susceptible to vibrations from powerful explosions. "There was no escaping significant physical damage," he stated, confirming that the technical conditions post-strike lead to the conclusion that the centrifuges can't function. Experts continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds.
