In a dramatic turn of events, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed damage to Iran's Khondab heavy water reactor following an Israeli strike in the Arak region. Just a day after evacuation warnings, air strikes hit the area known for hosting nuclear projects under construction, including a heavy water processing plant and a nuclear reactor.
Although the reactor's main structure sustained damage, Iranian authorities noted that the core facility remained intact. This incident underscores the delicate balance between ensuring nuclear safety and navigating complex geopolitical tensions.
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized that the agency’s findings should not be the basis for military actions. As he told CNN, "Military action, from wherever it comes, is a political decision that has nothing to do with what we're saying." His reminder highlights how scientific assessments and political decisions exist on very different planes.
For our young, tech-savvy readers across South and Southeast Asia, this event is a stark reminder of how global dynamics ripple into our everyday lives. It invites us to keep questioning and stay informed in an ever-connected world. 🌏💬
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IAEA: Iran's Khondab heavy water reactor damaged in Israeli strike
cgtn.com
