UN Nuclear Watchdog Alarmed by Drone Strike Near UAE Atomic Plant
Dubai-The International Atomic Energy Agency said on Sunday it was “gravely concerned” after a drone strike triggered a fire near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates, though Emirati authorities said there was no impact on nuclear safety or plant operations.
Authorities in Abu Dhabi said emergency teams responded to a fire in an electrical generator located outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah facility in the Al Dhafra Region following the drone strike.
The IAEA said it was closely monitoring developments and remained in continuous contact with UAE authorities, adding that it stood ready to provide assistance if required.
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation said radiological safety levels were unaffected and confirmed the plant’s critical systems continued operating normally.
“No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological safety,” the Abu Dhabi Media Office said in a statement, adding that all operational units at the facility remained functional.
Authorities urged the public to rely on official information sources and avoid circulating unverified reports related to the incident.
The Barakah plant, located west of Abu Dhabi near the Saudi border, is the Arab world’s first operational nuclear power facility and plays a central role in the UAE’s strategy to diversify energy sources and reduce carbon emissions.
The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions and increased concerns over the vulnerability of critical energy and infrastructure facilities to drone and missile attacks across the Gulf region.
Neither UAE authorities nor the IAEA immediately identified those responsible for the drone strike.
