In June, Israel attacks the French-built Tamuz nuclear research reactor in Iraq on the suspicion that it was being used for nuclear weapons research. The reactor was under IAEA safeguards. The attack draws harsh international criticism, and IAEA Board action. In November 1981, IAEA Director General Eklund reports to the UN Security Council on the Tamuz matter. In September, States appoint Dr. Hans Blix, former Minister of Foreign Affairs in Sweden, as IAEA Director General for an initial term of four years beginning in December 1981.