The 1986 reactor explosion that reshaped nuclear safety and policy
Airborne radioactive events inside Koeberg during steam generator inspections have triggered safety alarms but remained contained within the plant’s containment and ventilation systems. The National Nuclear Regulator says there is no danger to the public and the plant remains on schedule with Unit 2 maintenance. Eskom highlights defence-in-depth and no environmental release.
The US has finalised a 30‑year civilian nuclear cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia and has submitted it to Congress for review. The pact will allow US firms to help build Saudi nuclear power, could permit domestic uranium enrichment after a joint study, and has drawn warnings that it will increase proliferation risks and regional tensions.
Italy is pursuing a back‑to‑nuclear energy strategy, aiming to legalize next‑generation technologies and use small modular reactors to meet rising demand, climate goals and energy security. Debates trace to a historic shift after Chernobyl and Fukushima, with authorities projecting a timeline toward 2033–2035 for potential operations.
The Suzy Lamplugh case remains active as cold-case detectives review new information and follow up 30 potential witness leads. Prime suspect John Cannan has died in prison, but investigators say advances in forensics or new testimonies could still crack the 40-year-old disappearance and bring closure to her family.
The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement and a bilateral safeguards pact, but President Donald Trump has said the deal is conditional on Riyadh normalising relations with Israel. Officials and commentators are disputing whether the White House and Energy Department coordinated the announcement. Critics warn the pact weakens non‑proliferation safeguards and could spur a regional arms race.