WHO prepares for 'worst-case' nuclear scenario in Iran conflict

2026-03-19 - 19:09

The World Health Organization has begun preparing for the "worst-case scenario" of a nuclear catastrophe as the conflict between US-Israeli forces and Iran intensifies, with officials openly acknowledging concerns that escalating attacks on atomic facilities could trigger a radiological disaster. WHO Eastern Mediterranean Regional Director Hanan Balkhy confirmed in interviews that UN staff are monitoring strikes on Iranian nuclear installations while maintaining "vigilance" for any type of nuclear incident. "The worst-case scenario is a nuclear incident, and that's something that worries us the most," Balkhy stated, warning that "the consequences are going to last for decades" if such an event occurs. She emphasized that WHO personnel are preparing for a "broader sense" of nuclear events, including both the use of nuclear weapons and attacks on nuclear facilities, while hoping such scenarios never materialize . Nuclear facilities under fire The warnings come amid confirmed strikes on Iranian atomic infrastructure. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported that on March 17, a projectile struck the premises of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, though no damage to the facility or injuries were reported . The IAEA reiterated that "attacks on nuclear facilities are prohibited" under international law, as Rafael Grossi urged "utmost restraint in all military operations" to prevent radiological releases . Previous attacks have targeted multiple Iranian sites, including the Natanz enrichment facility, where satellite imagery confirmed damage to entrance buildings . While the IAEA has stated that no abnormal radiation levels have been detected in neighboring countries, the agency continues to face communication challenges with Iranian nuclear authorities . Mutual threats and regional proliferation risks The nuclear dimension of the conflict has deepened as both sides exchange threats. Iran has warned it could target Israel's Dimona nuclear facility in response to attacks on its atomic program, while US President Donald Trump's advisor David Sacks suggested that Israel might consider nuclear options if existential threats persist. Trump himself has insisted that "Israel will never do that," downplaying such possibilities . The IAEA has expressed concern about nuclear facilities across the region, noting that the presence of power plants and research reactors in multiple countries heightens safety risks amid ongoing military escalation . The UAE, which hosts the Barakah nuclear plant, has been repeatedly targeted by Iranian retaliatory strikes given its US military installations, raising fears of broader nuclear security implications. Humanitarian preparations intensify WHO has begun retraining personnel on nuclear emergency response, providing guidance on public health risks and protective measures. The organization is working with member states to audit radiation detection equipment and essential supplies including potassium iodide for thyroid protection . Balkhy noted that "anyone who reads the history of past incidents knows exactly what we're talking about," referencing previous nuclear accidents and their long-term health consequences. As the conflict continues with no diplomatic resolution in sight, Türkiye monitors these developments with grave concern, given the potential for transboundary radiological effects and regional destabilization.