WHO warns of catastrophic risks after strike on Bushehr nuclear plant

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned of catastrophic consequences following the targeting of Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, amid escalating conflict in the region.

In a statement posted on X, the Director-General of the World Health Organisation said he shares the concerns of the International Atomic Energy Agency regarding the safety of nuclear facilities in Iran.

He stressed that any attack on a nuclear site could trigger a nuclear accident, warning that such an event would have long-term and far-reaching health consequences.

“The recent attack on the Bushehr nuclear plant is a stark reminder,” Tedros said, adding that the risks are increasing with each passing day of the ongoing war.

READ: ‘Radioactive fallout will end life in GCC capitals, not Tehran’: Top Iranian diplomat

He called for urgent de-escalation, stating that peace remains “the best medicine” to prevent further deterioration.

The Bushehr facility was reportedly targeted on Saturday, marking the fourth such attack since the start of the US-Israeli offensive against Iran on 28th February.

Since then, Israel and the United States have been waging a war against Iran that has resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries, while Tehran has responded by launching missiles and drones toward Israeli-controlled areas.

Iran has also targeted what it describes as American sites and interests in Arab countries; however, some of these attacks have caused deaths, injuries, and damage to civilian infrastructure, drawing condemnation from the affected states.

The escalation comes despite reports that Iran had been making progress in negotiations with Washington regarding its nuclear program, with mediation efforts involving Oman.

The United States and Israel accuse Iran of pursuing nuclear and missile programs that threaten regional security, while Tehran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful and not intended for weapons development.

READ: Russia evacuating employees from Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant in wake of attack