Iran state nuclear body decries 'lawless, enemy' US attack

The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran lambasted the US bombing of its nuclear sites, in a strident first official reaction which stopped well short of pledging a counterattack.

"Following the brutal attacks by the Zionist enemy over the past few days, Iran’s nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan came under a savage assault in the early hours of today—an act in blatant violation of international law," the state body said.

"This action, which contravenes international norms, has unfortunately taken place under the indifference—or even complicity—of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)."

"The American enemy, through the U.S. president’s public statements on social media, has claimed responsibility for the attacks on these sites ...The global community is expected to condemn these lawless acts rooted in the logic of the jungle and support Iran in asserting its legitimate rights," it added.

"The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran assures the great Iranian nation that despite the malicious conspiracies of the enemies, it will not allow the development of this national industry—built on the blood of our nuclear martyrs—to be halted, thanks to the dedication of thousands of revolutionary and motivated scientists and experts."

It also threatened potential legal action.