Fact Check: "U.N. nuclear chief Rafael Grossi told the Security Council that the above-ground section of the Natanz facility was destroyed."
What We Know
On June 13, 2025, U.N. nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi reported to the Security Council that the above-ground pilot enrichment plant at Iran's Natanz nuclear site had been destroyed. This statement was made during a briefing regarding the situation in Iran, where Grossi confirmed the destruction of the facility, which is significant for uranium enrichment activities (Reuters).
However, further reports indicated that while there was damage to the Natanz facility, it was not completely destroyed. Experts noted that the deeply buried uranium enrichment sites at Natanz and Fordow had escaped significant damage, suggesting that the situation may not be as dire as initially presented (Washington Post).
Analysis
The claim that Grossi stated the above-ground section of the Natanz facility was destroyed is supported by his own remarks during the Security Council meeting. The reliability of this information is bolstered by the fact that it was reported by reputable news outlets such as Reuters, which is known for its journalistic standards and fact-checking protocols (Reuters).
However, the subsequent analysis from experts raises questions about the extent of the damage. Reports indicate that while the above-ground facility was indeed damaged, the core uranium enrichment operations, which are critical for Iran's nuclear ambitions, remain intact (Washington Post). This discrepancy highlights the importance of context in interpreting Grossi's statement. The initial claim may lead to an exaggerated perception of the situation if not coupled with the understanding that other facilities remain operational.
The sources reporting on this matter vary in their focus and detail. The Reuters report provides a direct quote from Grossi, making it a primary source for the claim. In contrast, the Washington Post article offers a critical assessment of the situation, which is essential for understanding the full scope of the events and the implications of Grossi's statement.
Conclusion
Needs Research. While the claim that Rafael Grossi reported the destruction of the above-ground section of the Natanz facility is accurate, the context surrounding the damage requires further investigation. The initial reports may not fully capture the situation, as subsequent analyses indicate that other critical components of Iran's nuclear program remain unaffected. Therefore, a more nuanced understanding of the situation is necessary before drawing definitive conclusions about the implications of Grossi's statement.
