WANA (Mar 27) – Reza Najafi, Iran’s representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has issued a stern warning regarding the catastrophic regional impact of a potential strike on the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant.

 

The envoy emphasized that any breach of the facility would lead to “severe consequences,” including the potential release of radioactive materials that would not be contained within Iranian territory.

 

Regional Environmental Threat

Najafi highlighted the strategic and environmental vulnerability of the site, noting its location on the Persian Gulf coast. “In the event of an incident, the waters of the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and surrounding areas will face contamination,” Najafi stated.

 

He warned that because these waters serve as the primary source of drinking water for countries on the southern coast of the Persian Gulf, a radioactive leak would necessitate large-scale regional evacuations.

 

Current Status of the Plant

While a building near the reactor has sustained damage, the envoy clarified that the reactor itself—a highly sensitive infrastructure—remains intact.

 

Najafi confirmed that there have been no reports of increased radiation levels thus far and described the current situation as “under control.” However, he stressed that if the reactor itself is targeted, the fallout would be devastating.

 

Criticism of IAEA Response

The Iranian representative condemned the targeting of nuclear facilities as a violation of international law and criticized the IAEA’s perceived passivity.

 

“Attacking nuclear installations is prohibited. The Agency must take more serious measures, including holding a special session and formally condemning these attacks. Merely issuing statements is not enough,” Najafi concluded.