Pages 135-136 from FCO 84179 - Iraq Nuclear Energy

The document is a special announcement by the Government of Israel, dated June 8, 1981, regarding the Israeli Air Force's raid on the atomic reactor "OSSIRAC" near Baghdad. The raid successfully destroyed the reactor, and all Israeli aircraft returned safely. The government explains that they had been monitoring the construction of the reactor, which they believed was intended to produce atomic bombs targeted at Israel. They cite statements by the ruler of Iraq and other sources as evidence. The Israeli government decided to act to protect its people, as the reactor was close to becoming operational, and they feared the potential threat of atomic bombs being launched against Israeli cities. The document also mentions failed attempts to rally international support to stop Iraq's nuclear program. The destruction of the reactor was carried out to prevent further risks and was timed to minimize harm to foreign experts working at the facility. The document includes excerpts of Iraqi statements expressing their intentions to acquire nuclear weapons.