MIDDLE EAST
Where is Isfahan, and why has it been attacked by Israel?
Located 252 miles south of Tehran, it is a city that houses nuclear reactors, military bases, missile production centres, and more.
Iran has downed several drones in the central province of Isfahan, allegedly launched by Israel in response to the attack with hundreds of drones and ballistic missiles last Saturday. Additionally, explosions have been reported in southern Syria and central Iraq, potentially targeting Iran-affiliated groups in the region.
Following a night where flights were suspended due to the uncertainty, Iranian authorities have reopened airports, including two airfields in the capital. Currently, the situation is deemed completely normal, and nuclear facilities are reported to be “completely secure.”
Why was Isfahan targeted by Israel?
However, why Isfahan and not another location? The answer is clear: as the capital of the Persian Empire in 1047, under the Seljuks, this province hosts three nuclear reactors, military bases, missile production centers, and a significant nuclear technology center, Natanz.
To add to its significance, Isfahan is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites and a plethora of Islamic architectural and artistic legacies. “Esfahan, nesf e yahan (Isfahan is half the world),” Iranians proudly declare about this city, as reported by ‘EFE’.
Where is Isfahan? How big is it?
Located 252 miles (406 km) south of Tehran, Isfahan is the third most populous city and sits at the intersection of Iran’s two main north-south and east-west routes. It is adorned with tree-lined boulevards, expansive avenues, palaces, mosques, and gardens.
Iranians, who seize every opportunity to visit, especially during the early months of spring, consider it the cultural and architectural capital of the country. Similarly, it stands as one of the most significant centres for craftsmanship.
Isfahan’s nuclear facilities “undamaged”
Fortunately, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has assured that the nuclear facilities in Isfahan have not incurred any damage in this drone offensive launched by Israel in the early hours of Friday, despite information disseminated by certain American media outlets.
“The IAEA can confirm that there has been no damage to Iran’s nuclear facilities. Director General Rafael Grossi continues to urge extreme moderation from all parties and reiterates that nuclear facilities should never be targets in military conflicts,” they stated in a social media post.
This entity, closely monitoring the situation, has reiterated in the statement that nuclear facilities should never be the focal point of a conflict involving countries. The ball is now back in Tehran’s court, as it has already threatened earlier this week to respond more forcefully to its adversary in case of aggression.