A severe warning has been issued by Russia regarding the potential for a "Chernobyl-style catastrophe" if Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant is targeted by an Israeli attack. The head of Russia's state nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom, Alexei Likhachev, explicitly stated that a strike on the operational first power unit would result in a disaster comparable to the 1986 Chernobyl incident. Despite an initial claim of responsibility from an Israeli military spokesperson, which was later retracted as a mistake, concerns remain exceptionally high. Russia has taken precautions by evacuating some specialists from the Bushehr plant, which it built and continues to operate, though a core workforce remains on site, prepared for various scenarios, including rapid evacuation.

International reactions have been swift and critical. Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, condemned Israeli attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities as unacceptable and illegal, specifically highlighting the safety of the Bushehr plant due to Russian involvement. She also issued a stern warning to Washington against military intervention, citing unpredictable negative consequences. Russian President Vladimir Putin, while emphasizing strong ties with Israel, also condemned its actions in a call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, stressing the importance of a diplomatic solution that addresses Israel's security concerns without military force against Iran.

The broader conflict has seen significant escalation, with Israel bombing nuclear targets in Iran and Iranian missiles striking an Israeli hospital. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that Tehran's "tyrants" will pay the "full price." Amidst this heightened tension, both Russian and Chinese leaders have strongly condemned Israel's actions, stating they violate the U.N. Charter and other international laws, and have called for de-escalation, asserting that there is no military solution to the current crisis.

Adding another layer to the complex situation are reports suggesting China's potential secret assistance to Iran. Three Boeing 747 cargo planes, typically used for heavy-duty military equipment, reportedly departed from China for Tehran on consecutive days following Israel's initial attacks. While their declared destination was Luxembourg, they dropped off radar near Iran, sparking speculation that China is providing aid. Experts note that China and Iran are strategic partners, aligning against the U.S.-led Western order, and Iran is a crucial energy supplier to China, providing around two million barrels of oil daily, much of which is purchased at a discount in yuan by Chinese "teapot" refineries. An attack on Iran's Kharg Island, a major oil loading point, would severely impact China's energy supply. Despite the economic implications and a history of China providing ballistic missile materials to Iran, experts believe the chances of China sending weapons remain low but warrant close monitoring. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump had previously discussed military action against Iran, while Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has defiantly stated his country will "never surrender" to military intervention.