Iran Rejects Trump’s Ultimatum; Fears of Radiation Leak Following Attack Near Nuclear Plant

Tehran: Tensions between the United States (US) and Iran continue to escalate. Recently, US President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran; however, Iran has rejected it in the strongest terms. General Ali Abdollahi—affiliated with Iran’s central military command, Khatam al-Anbiya—described Trump’s statement as a “helpless, panicked, erratic, and foolish move.” He asserted that Iran would not bow down to such threats from the United States.

Trump Warned of Devastation for Iran
In fact, Trump had warned that if Iran failed to reach an agreement or reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours, the US could launch a major attack on Iran’s critical infrastructure. Writing on his social media platform, he stated: “If a decision is not made in time, devastation will rain down upon Iran.” This statement comes just days after Trump had reportedly called off a planned attack on Iranian energy facilities for 10 days, noting at the time that negotiations were progressing well. However, his stance has now suddenly hardened significantly, thereby exacerbating the already grave situation.

Attack Occurred Near Bushehr Nuclear Plant: Iran
Meanwhile, another major concern has emerged. Iran has alleged that the United States and Israel have carried out an attack in the vicinity of its nuclear infrastructure. In a letter addressed to the UN Secretary-General, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that such attacks pose a risk of spreading radioactive (nuclear) contamination across the entire region—a scenario that could prove extremely hazardous to both human life and the environment.

Heightened Fears of Radiation Leak
The alleged attack is reported to have taken place near the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Although the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated that there has been no increase in radiation levels at present, the situation remains extremely sensitive. According to reports, a security guard near the plant was killed in the attack, and some buildings sustained damage; however, the main plant remains intact, and power generation has not been affected. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has also expressed deep concern regarding this incident. He stated that attacking nuclear facilities or their vicinity is extremely dangerous, as it could heighten the risk of a major nuclear accident. He has appealed to all parties to exercise restraint.