WANA (Jun 20) – Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), issued a stark warning during the UN Security Council’s second emergency meeting on Israel’s recent attacks on Iran, stressing the severe implications for nuclear safety and security.

 

Key Highlights from Grossi’s Address:

 

Nuclear Safety Compromised: Grossi stated that the attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities have “seriously undermined nuclear safety and security” in the country. While no radiological material has been released at levels that threaten the public so far, “the risk of such an incident is very real.”

 

Bushehr Nuclear Plant at Risk: He cautioned that any attack on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant could lead to a major radiological release, posing grave dangers to public health and the environment.

 

Tehran Research Reactor Threat: Grossi emphasized that an attack on the Tehran Research Reactor could have severe consequences for large parts of the capital and its population, requiring immediate protective measures for civilians in such a scenario.

 

Khondab Heavy Water Reactor Hit: On June 19, the Khondab heavy water reactor (formerly Arak) was struck. Grossi noted that since the reactor was not yet operational and contained no nuclear material, there was no radiological impact. The nearby heavy water production plant was also hit, but no radiological consequences are expected there either.

 

IAEA Inspections to Resume: Grossi stressed that inspections would resume as soon as stability and security are restored, and reaffirmed the need to “pursue diplomatic solutions” to prevent escalation.

 

The IAEA chief concluded with a call for restraint and renewed international efforts to protect nuclear facilities from military conflict, warning that attacks on such sensitive sites could lead to catastrophic outcomes for both regional and global security.