Iran has introduced an emergency preparedness plan amid concerns over a possible nuclear attack by the United States (US) and Israel. As part of the measures, authorities have begun distributing anti-radiation iodine tablets to residents of Bushehr, which is known for being home to the country’s only operational nuclear power plant.
The distribution was reported by Iranian media outlet Young Journalists Club (YJC), which said the programme initially targeted areas near the nuclear facility before being expanded across the city.
According to the report, crisis management authorities have ordered the release of 180,000 tablets, which are being made available to residents through comprehensive health centres.
The move comes amid heightened regional tensions and renewed concerns over the security of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.
However, the reports have not been independently confirmed by major international news organisations.
Potassium iodide tablets are used in nuclear emergencies to reduce the amount of radioactive iodine absorbed by the thyroid gland.
The stable iodine saturates the thyroid, limiting its ability to absorb radioactive iodine that may be released during a nuclear accident or radiological incident.
Iranian officials reportedly advised that the tablets should be taken within a specific window, from 24 hours before potential exposure to four hours afterwards.
The dosage varies according to age, with infants receiving smaller amounts than older children and adults.
Health experts caution that potassium iodide offers limited protection.
It does not protect against other radioactive materials or external radiation and should only be taken when instructed by public-health authorities.
The reported distribution comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Washington, Tehran and Israel.
On November 1, US President Donald Trump reportedly warned that US forces could strike suspected remaining Iranian nuclear facilities within minutes, referring to the Pickaxe Mountain site.
Earlier, on October 16, Trump ruled out the use of nuclear weapons but left open the possibility of further conventional military action against Iran.
Bushehr is particularly sensitive because it hosts Iran’s only operational nuclear power station, making emergency planning in the surrounding region an important part of the country’s nuclear safety arrangements.
