No proof of nuclear bomb: IAEA counters Israeli justification for Iran strikes

As violence between Israel and Iran escalates for a sixth consecutive day, Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has reiterated that the agency has found no evidence indicating Iran is actively working to develop nuclear weapons.

In an interview with CNN, Grossi addressed international speculation over Tehran's nuclear intentions, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian  media.

“We did not have any proof of a systematic effort by Iran to move into a nuclear weapon,” he stated. The remarks were shared by CNN anchor Christiane Amanpour and reposted by Iran’s Press TV and the Iranian Embassy on social media platform X.

The Embassy emphasized Grossi’s comments, stating: "Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, admits that Iran was not going to make a nuclear weapon. What we reported was that we did not have any proof of a systematic effort (by Iran) to move toward a nuclear weapon."

Despite the IAEA's findings, Israel has cited Iran’s alleged nuclear weapons program as justification for launching missile strikes on June 13 under Operation Rising Lion, targeting what it claims are nuclear-linked sites. However, several of the strikes have reportedly hit civilian infrastructure, resulting in the deaths of dozens, including women and children.

A report by the Times of Israel, citing unnamed security officials and Army Radio, claims Israeli intelligence uncovered “golden information” suggesting Iranian scientists had made significant progress in nuclear weapon design. The intelligence was reportedly presented to Israeli political leadership just prior to the initiation of the strikes. The same report noted Israeli concerns that Iran’s nuclear program could be more advanced than current intelligence indicates.

In Washington, the US State Department reaffirmed its hardline stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said, “Now with the conflict between Iran and Israel, President Trump is also clear that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon... The fact that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon is clear. As the White House reminds us, since taking office, President Trump has clearly stated that Iran cannot be allowed to have a nuclear weapon.”

The conflict has caused significant civilian harm. Israel has reported 24 fatalities, more than 800 injuries, and the evacuation of over 3,800 people. As opposing narratives over Iran’s nuclear intentions deepen, global observers warn that miscalculations could spiral into a wider regional war.

By Vafa Guliyeva