Full Breakdown
Rosatom's Commitment to Iran Amid Regional Conflict
3/13/2026, 2:48:43 AM
Ongoing Operations at Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant
Despite the escalating conflict in the Middle East, Russia's state nuclear corporation Rosatom has reaffirmed its commitment to continue operations in Iran, particularly at the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant. On March 12, Rosatom's CEO Alexei Likhachev announced that the corporation plans to proceed with the construction of two additional reactors at the site, which is Iran's only nuclear power facility. The first 1-gigawatt reactor at Bushehr was completed by Rosatom, and under a bilateral agreement, the company is authorized to construct up to eight nuclear reactors, with four designated for Bushehr.
Following strikes by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets on February 28, Rosatom temporarily evacuated some staff and suspended construction activities. Currently, approximately 450 employees remain at the site, while 150 workers returned to Russia via Armenia. Likhachev emphasized that the construction of the second and third reactors remains a priority for Rosatom, stating, “It is definitely not the time to leave. What is happening in the Middle East is only part of a global mosaic.”
Safety Measures and Staff Management
In light of the ongoing security situation, Rosatom has initiated plans to evacuate a second group of personnel, including family members of workers involved in the Bushehr project. Likhachev highlighted that ensuring the safety of Russian personnel is the company's top priority. Although major construction work has been temporarily halted, essential maintenance tasks continue to be performed by remaining staff.
Financial Agreements and Future Plans
In addition to the ongoing projects at Bushehr, Iran signed a $25 billion agreement with Rosatom in the autumn of 2025 to construct four additional reactors with a total capacity of 5 gigawatts at a new site in southeastern Iran. This agreement also includes a memorandum for the development of small nuclear power plants within the country.
Criticism & Opposition
While Rosatom maintains its operational stance, the decision to continue work in Iran amid regional tensions has drawn scrutiny. Critics argue that the ongoing conflict poses significant risks to both Iranian and foreign personnel, raising questions about the long-term viability of such projects in unstable environments.
Official Statements & Responses
Likhachev has publicly stated that the situation around the Bushehr plant remains tense but has assured that there have been no strikes on the facility itself. He reiterated the importance of the Bushehr project within the broader context of Russia-Iran relations and global energy dynamics.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The construction of the second and third units remains among the corporation’s priorities. It is definitely not the time to leave. What is happening in the Middle East is only part of a global mosaic,” — Alexei Likhachev, CEO of Rosatom
- “For obvious reasons, the main construction work at the site has been temporarily suspended,” — Alexei Likhachev, CEO of Rosatom
As Rosatom navigates the complexities of operating in a conflict zone, its commitment to the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant underscores the intricate ties between Russia and Iran in the realm of nuclear energy development.
