Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has termed the drone attack near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant a “terrorist act” and stated that it reserves the full right to respond to such attacks. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan conveyed this during a conversation with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi.
According to the UAE Foreign Ministry, a drone strike near the outer perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra region triggered a fire in an electrical generator. However, authorities confirmed that there were no casualties or radiation leaks. Officials said the plant’s safety systems functioned effectively and the situation was brought under control quickly.
Condemning the attack, Sheikh Abdullah said targeting civilian infrastructure and nuclear facilities constitutes a serious violation of international law. He emphasized that the UAE has the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, citizens, and critical infrastructure.
IAEA chief Rafael Grossi also expressed concern over increasing military activities around nuclear facilities, warning that such incidents pose a serious threat to global nuclear safety. The agency confirmed that radiation levels at the plant remain normal and all safety mechanisms are operating properly.
The UAE Ministry of Defence stated that three drones had entered the country’s western airspace. Two were intercepted and destroyed by air defence systems, while one drone reached close to the nuclear facility. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far, and investigations are currently underway.