Russia condemns strikes on Iran nuclear sites, urges restraint

Russia on Saturday condemned strikes on Iranian civilian nuclear facilities, saying the attacks deserve unequivocal and resolute condemnation from the international community.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement that aggressive attacks on Friday targeted a heavy water research reactor facility in Khondab in central Iran, a yellowcake (a uranium concentrate powder used for nuclear fuel production) production plant in Yazd Province and areas near the Bushehr nuclear power plant.

She urged the leadership of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to take a clear position and send a signal to the perpetrators that "it's time to stop" and that "you've already crossed the line."

Zakharova said attacks on civilian nuclear sites blatantly violate the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the IAEA verification mechanisms, and relevant norms on nuclear and physical security.

She described the strikes as part of a "destructive course" and said those responsible must immediately cease such actions.

The IAEA said on social media it had been informed by Iran of the new strike, and noted that being the third such incident in 10 days on Friday.

The Iranian authorities said the operating reactor was not damaged, no radiation release was reported and the facility remains in normal condition.

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi expressed deep concern about military activity near the nuclear site, warning it could trigger a major radiological incident if the reactor were hit. Grossi reiterated his call for maximum restraint.