Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning against targeting peaceful nuclear facilities in Iran, calling any such attack a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability, amid growing concern over Israeli strikes near sensitive infrastructure.

Riyadh: Civilian Nuclear Sites Are Off-Limits

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Saudi Arabia’s Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission condemned armed assaults or threats against peaceful nuclear installations, stressing that such acts would breach United Nations resolutions and the foundational principles of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The warning comes as Israel expands its air campaign on Iranian military and nuclear targets, prompting unease among Gulf states over the potential for radioactive contamination or retaliatory missile strikes.

Bushehr Reactor at Center of Regional Anxiety

Particular concern surrounds Iran’s only operational nuclear power plant, the Bushehr reactor, located on the Gulf coast near several Arab capitals. Although the plant is widely seen as peaceful in function, Saudi officials fear that strikes in its vicinity could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Environmental experts and diplomats have warned that any damage to the facility—even if unintentional—could result in a radiological crisis reminiscent of Chernobyl, especially given the densely populated and strategically critical nature of the region.

Broader Regional Implications

This Saudi intervention signals a growing rift between regional de-escalation efforts and the intensifying Israel-Iran confrontation. Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have long maintained cautious diplomacy with Iran, while supporting non-proliferation.

Amid rising tensions, Saudi officials reiterated their support for peaceful dialogue, warning that military miscalculations involving nuclear infrastructure could spiral into a broader regional emergency.