Satellite imagery, independently verified by BBC Verify, reveals extensive damage to Iranian nuclear and military sites following recent strikes. Analysis of imagery from Maxar and other providers shows significant damage at the Natanz nuclear facility, impacting the pilot fuel enrichment plant and an electrical substation, consistent with findings from the Institute for Space and International Security (ISIS).
Further damage is evident at a missile site south of Tabriz, confirmed by Umbra Space imagery, revealing damage to weapon storage, shelters, and silos. Analysis by geospatial intelligence consultant Chris Biggers supports these findings.
Additional imagery depicts damage at other known missile bases, including what appears to be extensive burn marks near a Kermanshah base, corroborated by verified footage showing multiple smoke plumes. Maxar imagery also reveals significant damage to an IRGC Ghadir ballistic missile base near Tehran and an IRGC radar site in Piranshahr.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed damage to four critical buildings in Isfahan, including the uranium conversion and fuel plate fabrication plants. BBC Verify analysis of Maxar imagery shows visible damage to at least two Isfahan structures. The IAEA reported no off-site radiation increase at either Natanz or Isfahan. No damage was observed at Arak or Fordow, despite Iranian claims of a Fordow strike, later denied by the IDF.
According to Justin Bronk of RUSI, the damage pattern at Natanz suggests the use of penetrating bombs, potentially GBU-31(V)3s or GBU-28s, consistent with past Israeli tactics. While the above-ground portion of the pilot fuel enrichment plant was destroyed, the IAEA notes that the underground cascade hall remains intact. The strikes have prompted retaliatory actions from Iran, escalating the conflict.
The extent of the damage suggests a significant setback to Iran’s nuclear program, but it is unlikely to be fully crippled. Reports also cite damage to Israeli military targets including an airport runway.
The escalating military confrontation between Iran and Israel raises concerns about the conflict’s potential trajectory and the humanitarian consequences, with the UN human rights chief expressing grave concerns over the suffering inflicted.