JUST IN: United Nations nuclear watchdog says it has “deep concern” following strike near Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran
Vienna / Tehran – April 3, 2026 | Reflecto News
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, has expressed “deep concern” over a reported strike near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, warning that any damage to the operating facility could trigger a major radiological accident with wide-reaching consequences.
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi reiterated that nuclear power plants and nearby areas “must never be attacked,” noting that auxiliary buildings at the site may contain vital safety equipment.
IAEA Statement
According to the agency, Iran informed the IAEA that a projectile struck the premises of the Bushehr plant. While no damage to the reactor itself or injuries to staff were initially reported in earlier similar incidents, the latest strike has raised fresh alarms.
Grossi stressed:
- The Bushehr plant is an operating nuclear power station with a large amount of nuclear material.
- Any direct hit or damage could result in a severe radiological incident affecting a large area inside Iran and potentially beyond its borders.
- He called for maximum military restraint to avoid nuclear safety risks during the armed conflict.
The IAEA also monitors radiation levels and has previously confirmed no increase in radiation following strikes near the facility.
Context in the Ongoing Conflict
Bushehr, located on the Persian Gulf coast, is Iran’s only operational nuclear power plant and has been a point of international concern since the start of Operation Epic Fury in late February 2026.
This latest incident comes as:
- U.S. and Israeli strikes continue to target Iranian military infrastructure.
- Iran has responded with ballistic missile barrages and claimed successes, including the downing of a U.S. F-15E.
- A U.S. combat search and rescue mission remains active inside Iran following the F-15 incident.
- Diplomatic efforts have stalled, with Iran rejecting key elements of the U.S. 15-point peace proposal and refusing talks in Islamabad.
- Selective shipping continues through the Strait of Hormuz, including recent transits for humanitarian and essential goods.
Implications
A radiological incident at Bushehr would represent a catastrophic escalation with potential cross-border effects on neighboring countries. The IAEA’s repeated warnings highlight the thin line between conventional military strikes and nuclear safety risks in the current conflict.
Reflecto News will continue monitoring official IAEA updates, radiation monitoring data, and reactions from Tehran, Washington, and Jerusalem. This remains a highly sensitive situation with global implications for nuclear safety.
By Reflecto News Desk
Sources: IAEA statements, Tasnim News Agency, Reuters, Al Jazeera, and international wire services.