Iran said one of its heavy water research reactors in Khondab was struck during a joint US-Israeli attack, according to statements carried by Fars News Agency.
An Iranian official said the facility was bombed “in two stages” by what he described as “American and Zionist aggression.” Authorities added that the strike caused no casualties and posed no risk of radioactive leakage.
Heavy water, which is denser than ordinary water due to the presence of a heavier hydrogen isotope, plays a key role in nuclear reactors by slowing neutrons, dw.com reports.
It can also be used in the production of tritium, a radioactive isotope, as well as in various scientific applications.
The Israel Defense Forces later confirmed that it had carried out a strike on the heavy water facility.
