Satellite imagery has provided a clearer picture of the damage inflicted on two of Iran’s key nuclear sites, as well as other military targets, following Israeli airstrikes. The imagery, analyzed by experts, shows significant damage to the Natanz nuclear facility and an electrical substation. According to the Institute for Space and International Security (ISIS), the pilot fuel enrichment plant at Natanz suffered damage, with Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), confirming that the above-ground part of the plant “has been destroyed”. This facility was producing uranium enriched up to 60% U-235, a critical component for both nuclear power and nuclear weapons.
Justin Bronk of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) suggested that the pattern of explosions “would fit with penetrating bombs being used. Probably GBU-31(V)3s or even possibly more specialized penetrating GBU-28s”. These munitions, known as “bunker busters”, have been used by Israel in the past to target underground facilities in Gaza and Lebanon. However, Grossi noted there is “no indication of a physical attack on the underground cascade hall containing part of the pilot fuel enrichment plant and the main fuel enrichment plant”.
The IAEA confirmed that four critical buildings were damaged at Isfahan, including the Uranium conversion facility and the fuel plate fabrication plant. Analysis of the latest images found visible damage to at least two structures at Isfahan and an apparent scorch mark near the periphery of the site. Fortunately, the IAEA reported “no increase in off-site radiation” at either Natanz or Isfahan.
In addition to nuclear sites, imagery and analysis revealed damage to several parts of a missile complex near Tabriz, including weapon storage areas, missile shelters, and silos. Significant damage was also observed at Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Ghadir ballistic missile base near Tehran and the IRGC radar site in Piranshahr.
The escalation in military activity between Israel and Iran has prompted international concern, with the UK advising against all travel to Israel. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump hosted a massive military parade in Washington DC, marking 250 years of the US Army, amidst nationwide protests against his presidency.