Iran Warns of Nuclear Fallout Risk Amid Escalating Border Strikes

On the 36th day of active hostilities, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi issued an urgent appeal to the United Nations and the IAEA, warning that continued strikes near nuclear infrastructure could result in "conclusive" environmental disasters. Araghchi highlighted previous strikes near the Natanz and Bushehr facilities, asserting that international intervention is required to prevent widespread radioactive contamination across the Middle East. On the ground, the conflict has intensified at critical transit points. A U.S.-Israeli airstrike targeted the al-Qaim border crossing in Iraq's Anbar province, resulting in casualties among the Popular Mobilization Forces. Additionally, trade and passenger traffic at the southern Shalamcheh crossing were halted after a separate strike killed one person and injured five others. In Iran's Khuzestan province, Tasnim news agency reported at least five injuries following attacks on petrochemical companies. Economic ripples continue as regional players seek to mitigate the impact of the conflict on energy exports. Documentation suggests a growing focus on pipeline alternatives through Türkiye to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the Pentagon updated its casualty count, noting that 365 U.S. troops have been wounded since the onset of the current escalation.