The United Nations nuclear watchdog has called an emergency meeting scheduled for tomorrow following overnight U.S. military strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, in what is being described as a major escalation in Middle East tensions.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said it is convening “in light of the urgent situation in Iran,” after U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that American forces had targeted the Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites in Iran.
The strikes, which began just before 01:00 BST, have been widely condemned and praised in equal measure, splitting international opinion and fuelling fears of a broader regional conflict.
Iran Demands IAEA Condemnation of US Action
Iran’s nuclear chief, Mohammad Eslam, has written a formal letter to the IAEA urging it to launch an investigation into the U.S. strikes and to issue a condemnation of what Tehran is calling “an act of nuclear terrorism,” according to Iranian state media.
Despite the scale of the attack, the IAEA later confirmed that there has been “no increase” in radiation levels at any of the targeted sites.
• 02:50 EAT: Donald Trump announces strikes on Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan.
• 03:56 EAT: Iran confirms the three nuclear sites were attacked.
• 04:43 EAT: Israeli PM Netanyahu praises Trump, says U.S. acted “with strength.”
• 04:54 EAT: UN chief António Guterres calls the strikes a “dangerous escalation.”
• 05:00 EAT: Trump addresses the U.S., warns Iran to make peace or face “greater attacks.”
• 07:31 EAT: Israel says Iran has launched a retaliatory strike.
• 08:00 EAT: IAEA confirms no rise in radiation levels at nuclear sites.
• 08:47 EAT: Israeli military announces a fresh wave of strikes in western Iran.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the U.S. strikes as a “historic” move, lauding Trump for his “deep and courageous” partnership with Israel.
However, Herzog struck a cautionary tone, warning that “the campaign is not over,” and urging Israeli citizens to follow official guidance during what he called “sensitive, complex, and challenging” days ahead.
Reactions to the U.S. action have been swift. While close allies such as Israel have expressed support, global leaders and international organisations have warned of potential repercussions.
The United Nations Security Council is expected to convene within the next 48 hours, and several European capitals have urged restraint, fearing an uncontrollable regional conflict.
More updates to follow as the situation develops.
