Vienna, Austria — The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, on Friday called for maximum restraint following Israeli attacks on Iran, including strikes on nuclear facilities.
“I call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid further escalation,” Grossi said during an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council. “I reiterate that any military action that jeopardizes the safety and security of nuclear facilities risks grave consequences for the people of Iran, the region, and beyond.”
Grossi emphasized that nuclear facilities must never be targeted, regardless of the context or circumstances, as such actions could harm both people and the environment. “Such attacks have serious implications for nuclear safety, security, and safeguards, as well as regional and international peace and security,” he stated.
Citing IAEA resolutions, he noted that any armed attack on nuclear facilities dedicated to peaceful purposes constitutes a violation of the UN Charter, international law, and the IAEA statute.
The IAEA is closely monitoring the situation. “The agency’s Incident and Emergency Center has maintained continuous contact with Iranian authorities from the onset of the attack, regularly confirming the status of the facilities and will continue to do so in the coming days,” Grossi said. He added that a task force has been established to keep a vigilant eye on developments.
Grossi affirmed the IAEA’s readiness to provide technical assistance and its commitment to its mandate on nuclear safety, security, and safeguards. “Despite the current military actions and heightened tensions, it is clear that the only sustainable path forward—for Iran, Israel, the entire region, and the international community—is one grounded in dialogue and diplomacy to ensure peace, stability, and cooperation,” he expressed.
He concluded by highlighting the crucial role of the IAEA as a platform for dialogue. “I reaffirm the agency’s readiness to facilitate technical discussions and support efforts that promote transparency, safety, security, and the peaceful resolution of nuclear-related issues in Iran.”
