Blast near Iran nuke plant
2005-02-16 16:06
Tehran - An unknown aircraft has reportedly fired a missile in a deserted area near Dailam where Iran has a nuclear power plant, Iranian state television has said.
"A powerful explosion was heard this morning on the outskirts of Dailam in the Bushehr province," state TV said.
"Witnesses said that the missile was fired from an unknown plane 20km from the city."
Other witnesses said they heard an explosion and saw a plane overhead.
The nuclear plant is being built with Russian help.
Local officials have been despatched to the site to identify the cause of the explosion, according to Arab-language television Al-Alam.
Iranian interior ministry spokesperson said he could not confirm reports anti-aircraft fire had been shot off near the plant.
Israel said it was not involved.
Oil prices rose sharply after news of the explosion.
- AP