Iranian Professor Feriborz Natiki issued a warning of a seismic risk similar to an ‘apocalypse’ in the capital Tehran.

In an interview with the Iran Student News Network (SNN), Natiki, a Faculty Member at the International Institute of Seismology and Earthquake Engineering in Tehran, mentioned a serious earthquake risk in many parts of the country, particularly in Tehran. Natiki emphasized that almost all of Iran and many neighboring countries are located in high-risk earthquake zones. He stated, “Iran is one of the countries where earthquakes occur most frequently in the world. According to recent statistics, Iran ranks third globally in terms of the intensity and frequency of earthquakes.” Drawing attention to the fact that Tehran sits on an active fault line, Natiki warned of the imminent risk of a devastating earthquake, saying, “It has been nearly 200 years since the last major earthquake, making it crucial to be prepared and plan ahead for this natural threat. Our biggest concern right now is the Tehran earthquake. It is truly an apocalypse for Tehran.”

“NOT AN ATOMIC BOMB OR WAR” Natiki highlighted a study on earthquakes in the region, indicating that a severe earthquake of magnitude around 7 occurs every 158-160 years in the area. He clarified, “Exceeding this timeframe doesn’t mean the danger has passed, but rather signals an increased likelihood of a more intense earthquake occurring.” Natiki pointed out that although many new buildings in the country appear well-designed architecturally, their foundations and skeletons are not constructed to be earthquake-resistant for cost-saving reasons. He expressed his higher level of concern for new constructions compared to the past, stating, “My research findings would definitely cause panic in the public if I presented statistics related to casualties, injuries, damaged, and collapsed buildings in a potential severe earthquake.” Natiki evaluated, “The situation is really dire. In my opinion, neither an atomic bomb, nor war, nor any other issues are our primary concern. The most significant threat to Iran is the Tehran earthquake. If the predicted earthquake strikes Tehran, sovereignty will crumble, and the country’s unity will disintegrate because the nation is dependent on Tehran in every aspect. In such a scenario, we will face a national disaster.”