The United Arab Emirates provided an update regarding a recent drone attack that caused a significant fire at a nuclear power plant. The incident occurred at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, described by authorities as an “unprovoked terrorist attack”.
According to the UAE’s defense ministry, three drones targeted the plant on May 17, with two drones being successfully intercepted while the third drone struck an electrical generator. The UAE attributed the attack to Iraq, noting that Shiite militias in the country, previously allied with Iran, have carried out drone assaults against Gulf Arab states.
In response to the escalating threats, the UAE’s defense systems successfully engaged six drones within the past 48 hours that were reportedly aiming at civilian and critical areas. The Ministry of Defence confirmed through social media that all hostile drones were neutralized without causing harm to individuals or essential facilities.
Anwar Gargash, a diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, expressed concerns about the attack, stating that it represents a dangerous escalation regardless of whether it was directly conducted or through proxies. The Barakah nuclear power plant, constructed at a cost of $20 billion with assistance from South Korea, commenced operations in 2020. It stands as the sole nuclear power facility in the Arab region and can supply a significant portion of the UAE’s energy requirements, serving the federation of seven sheikhdoms, including Dubai.
