In recent days we have seen a sudden escalation in the conflict between Israel and Iran. The attacks on the nuclear facilities – with direct assistance from the United States – prompt us to ask the following question: to what extent should we be concerned about these developments? And more importantly: how can we protect ourselves against possible consequences.
What happened
On 13 June 2025 Israel carried out missile attacks on Iranian nuclear installations, because the Iranians were said to be close to producing a nuclear weapon. Iran fired hundreds of missiles and drones in retaliation. The United States then bombed the three main Iranian nuclear facilities with heavy B2 bombers on 21 June 2025. Meanwhile there is talk of a ceasefire, although according to Israel it was already broken by Iran on 24 June. The regime in Tehran denies that violation.
The impact on us
The most disturbing aspect is the nuclear component. It is not yet entirely clear whether the Iranians’ nuclear installations have been completely destroyed. How extensive the damage and the impact on the immediate surroundings is, is not yet clear.
☢️ Want to know more about what to do in the event of a nuclear disaster?
Do you know what to do in the event of a nuclear disaster? Where you can go to take shelter? I previously wrote an article about shelters. Read here: Do I build a nuclear shelter myself or are there public shelters available?
What we currently know
- According to various agencies, there are so far no indications that radioactive substances have been released outside the installations.
- The International Atomic Energy Agency IAEA held an emergency meeting on Monday 23 June.
- For now it is unclear whether the enriched uranium was still present during the bombardments.
???? Are you worried about this conflict?
Are you concerned about the further course of this conflict? How are you dealing with it? Share your own findings or experiences about ‘subject’ in a comment below!
Direct consequences for Europe
Energy
The Strait of Hormuz is the most important corridor worldwide for the transport of oil and gas. Due to the bombardments, passage has become less certain. After a brief spike the oil price quickly fell, but if Iran decides to block the corridor, the oil price could rise to 120 dollars per barrel (today it stands at 74 dollars). That would also have a major impact on food prices.
Become energy independent
- Alternative energy sources: with for example solar panels and a home battery you become less dependent on gas and oil
- Ensure a good fuel supply: keep your tank full and store jerrycans with petrol for emergencies
War?
If the ceasefire is violated, the United States could become involved again in a protracted conflict. Since Belgium and the Netherlands are NATO partners, it can never be completely ruled out that we too will become involved in some way.
Article 5 of NATO states that an attack on one of the members of the NATO alliance is an attack on all members. This does not apply if American military bases in the Middle East are attacked. If the United States is attacked on its own territory, that collective response could occur. Also if it is proven that terrorist attacks are being carried out on behalf of Iran – given their track record that cannot be ruled out – Article 5 can be invoked.