Iran distributes iodine tablets near nuclear sites
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Tribune Online
Iran is distributing iodine tablets to people living near its nuclear facilities amid fears of new US strikes. The measure was confirmed by an Iranian Health Ministry official quoted by The Times, according to Al Jazeera.
The distribution of iodine tablets to people living near Iranian nuclear sites was reported by Al Jazeera, citing an article in The Times of London based on an unidentified Iranian Health Ministry official. The official reportedly confirmed the distribution and said authorities traditionally provide these tablets to residents within a radius of two to three kilometres of nuclear facilities during periods of heightened conflict.
Iran’s Health Ministry, however, denied that any of its officials had spoken to The Times, according to Al Jazeera. The reported distribution has therefore not been independently verified.
Iodine tablets, or potassium iodide, can protect the thyroid from exposure to radioactive iodine during certain nuclear or radiological emergencies, but they do not protect against all forms of radiation, according to Al Jazeera. The context is marked by statements from US President Donald Trump, who said on 5 November that Washington would soon decide on possible new strikes against Iran.
