The IDF Homefront Command will begin distributing anti-radiation pills to citizens living near Israel's two nuclear reactors this evening. The pills, known as Logol, are a compound of iodine that blocks absorption of radioactive material by shutting down the thyroid gland. Israel has had a stock of the pills for decades, and decided six weeks ago to distribute them now in case of a nuclear accident or attack.
Officials have reiterated that there is no urgency or cause for concern, explaining that the move is nothing more than a precaution. Defense Minister Mofaz noted that other countries, including Finland, Ireland, Switzerland, as well some U.S. states, have also taken measures to make anti-radiation pills more readily available to the public.
Soldiers will knock on residents' doors this evening, and will provide five pills to each person, along with instructions for use. Instruction #1 is not to consume the pills unless specifically instructed to do so by officials.
The pills will be distributed to all those living within a 30-kilometer radius of the Dimona plant in the Negev, and within a 5-kilometer radius of the Nahal Sorek facility near Ashdod.
Two cities have, as yet, not agreed to receive the pills. The Mayor of Arad, between the Dead Sea and Dimona, says that his city is just over the 30-kilometer limit. The Mayor of Yavneh, near Nahal Sorek, is also not interested in being included in the program. Both cities apparently are concerned about the negative image that accompanies the pill, and an expected resultant drop in property values.