IAEA chief warns after 4th Bushehr strike
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- Rafael Grossi said he was “deeply concerned” after Iran reported a fourth projectile strike near the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
- Iran informed the IAEA that a member of the plant’s physical protection staff was killed by a projectile fragment and that a building was damaged by shockwaves and fragments.
- IAEA reported that no increase in radiation levels was detected following the latest incident.
- Rafael Grossi reiterated the IAEA’s call for maximum military restraint to avoid the risk of a nuclear accident, citing the agency’s seven pillars for nuclear safety and security in armed conflict.
- Bushehr nuclear power plant previously suffered a strike on 18 March that destroyed a structure 350 metres from the reactor but caused no reactor damage or injuries.
- Rafael Grossi earlier warned that attacks on nuclear facilities in the region could violate key safety principles, noting that many countries with operational nuclear plants have been subjected to military attacks.
Why it matters: The warning underscores that attacks on nuclear facilities can cause loss of life and damage critical safety infrastructure, prompting the IAEA to demand maximum restraint to prevent a nuclear accident and protect regional populations. The agency’s emphasis on its seven pillars highlights the need for functional safety systems, reliable power supplies, and secure communications, all jeopardized by repeated strikes.
