UAE reports strike near Abu Dhabi nuclear power plant
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The United Arab Emirates reported a drone strike that caused a fire near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi.
- Officials stated that three drones entered the UAE from the west, with two intercepted and one hitting an electrical generator outside the plant's perimeter.
- Authorities confirmed no injuries or impact on radiological safety, but the UAE's foreign ministry condemned the act as an "unacceptable act of aggression" and a violation of international law.
The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned a drone strike that ignited a fire near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, labeling the incident a "dangerous escalation" and an "unacceptable act of aggression." Officials confirmed that three drones entered UAE airspace from the west, with two successfully intercepted. However, a third drone struck an electrical generator located outside the plant's inner perimeter, causing a blaze. Crucially, authorities have assured that no injuries were sustained and that the plant's radiological safety levels remain unaffected. The UAE's foreign ministry emphasized that targeting peaceful nuclear facilities is a flagrant violation of international law and the UN charter, asserting the nation's right to respond to such hostilities.
The drone strikes hit near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi, officials said.
This incident, occurring near Abu Dhabi's flagship nuclear facility, raises significant security concerns. While the UAE has taken precautionary measures and confirmed the plant is operating normally, the breach highlights vulnerabilities. The UAE has previously pointed fingers at Iran for similar attacks on its energy infrastructure, particularly since the outbreak of regional conflicts. The nation's defense ministry has vowed to "firmly confront any attempts to undermine the country's security," signaling a resolute stance against perceived threats. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is closely monitoring the situation, with its director general expressing "grave concern" and calling for "maximum military restraint."
No injuries were reported and there was no impact on radiological safety levels, local authorities said.
Originally published by BBC News. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.