IAEA Confirms Projectile Strike Near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Plant; One Fatality Reported

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced on Saturday that a projectile has struck near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. This marks the fourth such incident in recent weeks, raising international alarms over the safety of nuclear infrastructure amid escalating regional tensions.

According to a statement released by the IAEA on its official 'X' (formerly Twitter) account, Iranian authorities confirmed that a member of the site’s physical protection team was killed by shrapnel from the blast. The strike also caused structural damage to an on-site building due to shockwaves and debris.

Radiation Levels Remain Stable

Despite the impact, the IAEA confirmed that no increase in radiation levels has been detected in the vicinity of the plant. However, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi expressed "grave concern" regarding the development.

"Nuclear power plants and their surrounding areas must never be targeted," Grossi stated. He emphasized that even ancillary buildings on site often house vital safety and security equipment.

Call for Military Restraint

Grossi reiterated his urgent appeal for "maximum military restraint" to prevent the catastrophic risk of a nuclear accident. He underscored the absolute necessity of adhering to the "Seven Pillars" of nuclear safety and security during armed conflicts.

The incident comes at a time of heightened military activity in the region, with the IAEA monitoring the situation closely to ensure the integrity of the facility remains intact.