A drone strike on Sunday ignited a fire on the outer perimeter of the United Arab Emirates' Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, causing no injuries and no impact on radiological safety levels, according to authorities. The incident, described by officials as an "unprovoked terrorist attack," occurred as both the United States and Iran signaled a readiness to resume hostilities.
The strike targeted an external electrical generator situated outside the inner perimeter of the four-reactor facility in the Al Dhafra region. Investigations are underway to determine the origin of the attack.
Security and Safety Assurances
Authorities moved swiftly to reassure the public regarding the safety of the plant. The UAE's Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) confirmed that the incident did not compromise the plant's safety or the operational readiness of its essential systems. All operational units at the Barakah plant are reported to be functioning normally.
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Rafael Grossi, head of the UN's nuclear agency, reiterated a call for maximum military restraint near any nuclear power facility to avert the risk of a nuclear accident.
Wider Context of Regional Conflict
The drone attack on the Barakah plant marks the first time this specific facility has been targeted during the ongoing regional conflict. The UAE has previously accused Iran of orchestrating attacks on its energy and economic infrastructure. This incident occurs against a backdrop of stalled negotiations between the United States and Iran, with both nations reportedly preparing for renewed conflict.
During earlier phases of the war, Iran had repeatedly claimed that its own Bushehr nuclear power plant had come under attack, although direct damage to its reactors and any radiological release were not reported.
Saudi Arabia Intercepts Drones
Adding to the regional unease, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defence reported intercepting and destroying three drones that had entered its airspace from the direction of Iraq on the same day. The UAE's Ministry of Defence stated that three drones entered the country from the western border, with one ultimately causing the fire.
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