'Strike could trigger nuclear accident, devastate generations': WHO chief warns of disaster risk after Iran strike scare

Summary

In a statement on social media, Ghebreyesus cautioned that any attack on such sites could have far-reaching consequences. He said, "I join the IAEA in raising the alarm again over the safety of nuclear facilities in Iran. The latest incident involving the Bushehr nuclear power plant is a stark reminder: a strike could trigger a nuclear accident, with health impacts that would devastate generations. With every passing day of this escalating conflict, the stakes and threats are raised higher and higher. We must de-escalate now. Peace is the best medicine." According to the agency, Iranian authorities reported that one member of the plant’s physical protection staff was killed by a projectile fragment. A building within the facility was also impacted by shockwaves and debris, though no rise in radiation levels was detected. Also Read: Trump reveals how US saved the missing F-15 pilot from Iran’s grip in one of the ‘most daring ops in history’ IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi expressed serious concern over the development, stressing that nuclear facilities and surrounding areas must never be targeted during conflict. In a statement, the agency said, "The IAEA has been informed by Iran that a projectile struck close to the premises of the Bushehr NPP this morning, the fourth such incident in recent weeks. Iran also informed the IAEA that one of the site's physical protection staff members was killed by a projectile fragment and that a building on site was affected by shockwaves and fragments. No increase in radiation levels was reported." The IAEA further emphasised the need for restraint, adding, "IAEA DG Rafael Mariano Grossi expresses deep concern about the reported incident and says NPP sites or nearby areas must never be attacked, noting that auxiliary site buildings may contain vital safety equipment. Reiterating call for maximum military restraint to avoid risk of a nuclear accident, DG Grossi again stresses the paramount importance of adhering to the 7 pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security during a conflict." The latest strike occurred near the perimeter of the Bushehr facility on Saturday morning, according to Iran’s Tasnim News Agency. While the main structures of the plant were not damaged, an auxiliary building sustained some impact. Authorities said power production at the site remains unaffected. The incident underscores rising concerns over the vulnerability of critical nuclear infrastructure amid ongoing regional tensions, with global agencies warning that any escalation could carry severe humanitarian and environmental consequences. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)