IAEA warns of radioactive leak risk at Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi warned that any damage to Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant could cause a severe accident leading to a radioactive leak that would affect a vast area both inside and outside the country.

A statement posted on the IAEA’s X account warned that “in the context of the ongoing conflict, IAEA Director General @rafaelmgrossi [Rafael Mariani Grossi] reiterates his deep concern about recent military strikes reportedly occurring near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, the latest on Tuesday evening.”

“Given that it is an operating nuclear power plant with a large amount of nuclear material, DG Grossi warns that damage to the facility could result in a major radiological accident affecting a large area in Iran and beyond. 

“DG Grossi calls again for maximum restraint to avoid the risk of such a nuclear accident and stresses the importance of observing the 7 pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security during a conflict.”

The Bushehr plant, located on the Persian Gulf coast, was previously targeted in an attack on 17th March, which reportedly resulted in no casualties or physical damage.

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