New York: The head of the United Nations' atomic energy watchdog laid out in detail the dire consequences of a strike on working nuclear reactors in Iran, as Israel continues to pound facilities it says are linked to Tehran's ambitions to build a nuclear bomb. Rafael Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said at a meeting of the UN Security Council on Friday that the biggest concern is the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran.
According to Emirates News Agency, Grossi highlighted that the Bushehr plant is particularly vulnerable due to its operational status, which involves the handling of thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. He emphasized the grave risk posed by any military action targeting this facility, noting that countries in the region have reached out to him, expressing their concerns over the potential repercussions.
Speaking via video link on Friday, Grossi warned about the real risks associated with an attack on the Bushehr nuclear plant. He stated that a direct strike could lead to a significant release of radioactivity into the environment. Additionally, he cautioned that an assault disabling the two lines that supply electrical power to the plant could cause the reactor's core to melt, resulting in a high release of radioactivity.