The distribution programme is strictly limited to residents of Bushehr and is designed to protect against the absorption of radioactive iodine in the event of a nuclear or radiological incident. The deputy head of Bushehr University of Medical Sciences for health affairs stated that the initial phase prioritized areas surrounding the nuclear power plant before expanding to cover the entire city. The tablets remain available to residents at comprehensive health centres throughout the region.
Health officials explained that the tablets function by saturating the thyroid gland with stable iodine, thereby reducing its capacity to absorb radioactive iodine released during a radiological emergency. The official noted specific usage protocols: tablets should be taken within a window from 24 hours before potential exposure to four hours afterwards. Dosages vary by age, with infants under one month prescribed one-eighth of a tablet, children aged one month to three years one-quarter, those aged three to 12 half a tablet, and individuals over 12 a full tablet. Authorities clarified that while these tablets protect the thyroid, they do not provide protection against other radioactive substances or external radiation.
The announcement coincides with heightened diplomatic and military tensions following the military offensive launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28. US President Donald Trump warned on November 1 that Washington could strike Iran’s remaining suspected nuclear facilities within 10 minutes, specifically citing Pickaxe Mountain, a suspected underground nuclear site. Prior to this, on October 16, President Trump ruled out the use of nuclear weapons against Iran while maintaining the possibility of further conventional strikes against suspected Iranian nuclear infrastructure.
Bushehr’s location along Iran’s Gulf coast and its status as the home of the nation’s sole operational nuclear facility make radiological emergency preparedness a priority for local authorities. The current distribution effort is part of a broader crisis management strategy aimed at mitigating potential civilian health impacts from radiological hazards. No independent verification of the total quantity distributed or the specific operational status of the nuclear plant was provided in the available sources.
