International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi assessed the behavior of Russian experts at the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant during the attacks on Iran. Grossi said that the actions of Russia's state nuclear energy company Rosatom during this period were reasonable and that it acted appropriately for the situation.
Speaking to RIA Novosti, Grossi said, "We understand the situation. Of course, we discussed this issue with Russia, the government, and Rosatom. We are receiving signals that they are gradually returning. In my opinion, Rosatom's policy was quite reasonable: at the moment when the attacks peaked, no one wants to put civilian personnel in danger or at risk of harm."
The IAEA Director General noted that the agency therefore had the impression that personnel working primarily on the construction of the second unit were withdrawn from the area. Grossi added, "The experts necessary for the continued operation of the first unit remained on site. Now, as far as we understand, they are gradually returning, yes."
Currently, only one nuclear power plant is operating in Iran, at Bushehr. The plant's first unit, completed with Russia's participation, was connected to Iran's national energy grid in September 2011. Construction of the second phase, planned to consist of two power blocks, was underway.
Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev had previously stated that the state company had prepared a plan to send its specialists back to the construction site of the new units at the Bushehr NPP as soon as the situation permits. Likhachev reported that work at the construction site of the new units is currently halted due to the military conflict that began around Iran at the end of February.