WHO warns of catastrophic risks after strike on Iran's Bushehr nuclear plant

World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned of potentially catastrophic consequences following a reported strike on Iran's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant amid escalating regional conflict.

In a statement posted on X, Tedros said he shares the concerns of the International Atomic Energy Agency regarding the safety of nuclear facilities in Iran, reports the Middle East Monitor.

He cautioned that any attack on such sites could trigger a nuclear accident with long-term and far-reaching health consequences.

"The recent attack on the Bushehr nuclear plant is a stark reminder," he said, warning that risks are increasing with each passing day of the ongoing conflict. He called for urgent de-escalation, stressing that peace remains "the best medicine" to prevent further deterioration.

The Bushehr facility was reportedly targeted on Saturday, marking the fourth such strike since the start of the US-Israeli offensive against Iran on 28 February.

Since then, tensions have sharply escalated, with the United States and Israel conducting military operations against Iran. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries, while Tehran has responded with missile and drone attacks toward Israeli-controlled areas.

Iran has also targeted what it describes as US-linked sites in several Arab countries, with some strikes causing civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure, drawing condemnation from affected states.

The escalation comes despite earlier indications of progress in nuclear negotiations between Washington and Tehran, with mediation efforts involving Oman.

The United States and Israel accuse Iran of pursuing nuclear and missile programmes that threaten regional security. Iran, however, maintains that its nuclear activities are peaceful and not aimed at developing weapons.