Iran takes precautionary measures against radiation risks amid rising tensions with Washington

TEHRAN: Iranian authorities have distributed 180,000 potassium iodide tablets in the southern city of Bushehr as part of emergency preparations amid fears of possible nuclear or radiological incidents.

The distribution initially focused on areas near the country's only operational nuclear power plant before being extended to the entire city, according to a health official.

The tablets are intended to protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine exposure in the event of a nuclear emergency.

The move comes amid escalating tensions between Iran, the US and Israel following the military offensive launched by Washington and Tel Aviv against Iran on February 28.

US President Donald Trump warned on November 1 that American forces could target Iran's remaining suspected nuclear facilities, including the underground site known as Pickaxe Mountain.

Authorities have also reportedly distributed iodine tablets to residents living within two to three kilometres of nuclear facilities as part of wider emergency preparedness measures.