"IAEA looking into reports of an overnight attack" on Iran's Darkhovin nuclear power plant site
Vienna, July 19
The International Atomic Energy Agency on Sunday said it is looking into reports of an overnight attack on the construction site of a planned nuclear power plant in Darkhovin, in Iran's southwestern Khuzestan province.
In a post on X, the agency said, "The IAEA is looking into reports of an overnight attack on the construction site of a planned nuclear power plant in Darkhovin, Iran. The facility is in the very early stages of construction and contained no nuclear material when last visited by the IAEA."
The UN nuclear watchdog said the reported attack is not believed to pose any radiological risk.
"While the reported attack is not believed to pose any radiological risk, DG Rafael Mariano Grossi reiterates call for military restraint in the vicinity of all nuclear-related sites," the IAEA said.
The agency said it has contacted Iranian authorities regarding the reports and would provide further information as it becomes available.
"The IAEA has contacted Iran about the public reports and will provide further information as it becomes available," the agency said.
The investigation comes as Iran on Sunday claimed that the "terrorist and criminal regime" of the US has attacked the under-construction Darkhovin nuclear power plant in Khuzestan province, according to the state broadcaster IRIB.
In a statement carried out by IRIB, the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran (AEOI) alleged that the strike took place at around 3:39 am (local time).
"The terrorist and criminal regime of the US, which has no nature other than bullying and lawlessness, in an aggressive and brutal act contrary to international law, attacked the Darkhoin power plant site under construction - one of the symbols of the dignity and scientific self-sufficiency of the Iranian nation - with a number of projectiles," AEOI said.
The strike comes as US President Donald Trump said that he "couldn't care less" about Iran's decision to stop abiding by the US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU), reiterating that Washington's priority remains preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, Al Jazeera reported.
Speaking in a brief phone interview with US cable network NewsNation, Trump was asked about Tehran's announcement that it would no longer adhere to the interim agreement signed with the United States last month."I couldn't care less," Trump said.
He added that the war's primary objective is "never allowing Iran to have a nuclear weapon."
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who follows global affairs closely, I find the lack of independent verification troubling. Both sides are making claims without clear evidence. The IAEA's cautious approach is appropriate - they're the only neutral party here. That said, Trump's dismissive "I couldn't care less" attitude doesn't inspire confidence in diplomatic solutions.
India has always maintained that nuclear facilities should not be targeted under any circumstances. This principle is enshrined in our own nuclear doctrine. If reports are confirmed, it sets a dangerous precedent. The international community must investigate thoroughly and ensure accountability. Iran's claim about US involvement needs verification too.
The timing of this is suspicious - right when Iran announced they'd stop following the MoU. But attacking a site that's still under construction feels like a symbolic gesture more than a strategic move. The real issue is the broader conflict that keeps escalating. India has historically maintained good relations with both Iran and the West - we should urge de-escalation.
As an Indian, I'm reminded of our own peaceful nuclear program and how we've faced baseless accusations in the past. While I don't support Iran's nuclear ambitions, we must be fair - the IAEA confirmed no nuclear material was present. This attack, if true, serves no purpose other than to escalate tensions. Diplomacy, not bombs, should be the way forward.
I'm concerned about the lack of clarity. "Reports of an attack" could mean anything from a drone strike to a minor incident. The IAEA saying there's no radiological risk is reassuring, but we need more information. That said, the US shouldn't
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.