A drone strike triggered a fire near the Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, raising fresh fears over regional security and nuclear safety amid escalating tensions in the Gulf.
WEBDESK: MediaBites News
Authorities in Abu Dhabi confirmed that a drone strike caused a fire at the perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant on Sunday, intensifying concerns over the growing regional conflict involving Iran and Gulf states.
According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the fire broke out in an electrical generator located outside the plant’s inner security perimeter in the Al Dhafra region.
Officials said no injuries were reported and there was no impact on radiation levels or nuclear safety systems.
The UAE Ministry of Defense stated that three drones entered the country from the western border. Two drones were intercepted successfully, while the third managed to strike near the Barakah facility, causing the fire.
Authorities said investigations were underway to determine the origin of the attack.
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation confirmed that all units at the nuclear plant continued operating normally and that essential safety systems remained fully functional.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions across the Gulf following months of conflict between Iran and the United States, including renewed strikes targeting Gulf infrastructure after a fragile ceasefire collapsed earlier this month.
The attack immediately triggered international concern due to the sensitivity of nuclear facilities during military conflicts.
International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi expressed “grave concern” over the incident and warned against any military activity near nuclear sites.
In a statement posted on X, the IAEA confirmed it had been informed by UAE authorities that radiation levels remained normal and that emergency systems at the facility were functioning properly.
The agency also reiterated calls for “maximum military restraint” near nuclear power plants to avoid the risk of a catastrophic nuclear accident.
The Barakah nuclear facility is considered one of the UAE’s most strategically important infrastructure projects and a cornerstone of the country’s clean energy ambitions.
The plant supplies nearly 25 percent of the UAE’s electricity needs and generates approximately 40 terawatt hours of carbon-free electricity annually.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has previously described the Barakah project as a major step toward the country’s net-zero environmental goals.
Security analysts say the drone strike highlights growing vulnerabilities around critical energy infrastructure in the Gulf as regional instability deepens and military tensions continue to spread beyond traditional conflict zones.
