Riyadh has issued a sharp condemnation of the drone attack that struck near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi, describing it as a dangerous escalation threatening regional stability.
UAE authorities reported that three drones entered from the western border direction on Sunday. Air defenses intercepted two, but the third hit an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah facility in Al Dhafra region. A fire broke out but caused no injuries and no impact on radiation safety levels.
The Abu Dhabi Media Office confirmed operations at the plant continue normally. Emergency generators were activated temporarily for Unit 3 while the affected generator is addressed. The International Atomic Energy Agency was immediately notified and reported normal radiation levels.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry denounced the incident in strong terms, aligning with statements from Qatar, Jordan, and other Gulf partners. Officials in Riyadh called the strike a blatant violation of sovereignty and a threat to critical civilian infrastructure.
The Barakah plant, built with South Korean assistance at a cost of around $20 billion, houses four reactors and supplies roughly a quarter of the UAE’s electricity needs. It stands as the first and largest operational nuclear power station on the Arabian Peninsula, located approximately 225 kilometers west of Abu Dhabi near the Saudi border.
UAE Defence Ministry sources indicated investigations are ongoing to identify the exact perpetrators. Suspicion has fallen on Iran or its proxy militias operating from western directions, amid heightened tensions linked to the broader Iran conflict and recent ceasefire strains. No group has claimed responsibility so far.
This marks the first known direct strike on the Barakah facility since its commissioning. Regional security analysts note the attack targets a sensitive energy asset in a strategically vital area, raising fresh alarms over nuclear safety in conflict zones.
UAE Foreign Ministry described the incident as an “unprovoked terrorist attack” and a “dangerous escalation.” It stressed that the country will not tolerate any threats to its security and sovereignty. Officials affirmed the UAE’s full right to respond appropriately to protect its territory and citizens.
The strike comes as the region grapples with fragile ceasefire efforts between Iran and the United States. Repeated drone and missile activities have targeted Gulf infrastructure in recent weeks, testing air defense systems across the UAE and neighboring states.
Saudi Arabia has reiterated its support for the UAE’s security. In previous similar incidents, Riyadh coordinated closely with Abu Dhabi, calling for de-escalation while backing defensive measures. The Kingdom’s latest statement urges an immediate end to such aggressions and respect for international norms and good neighborly relations.
Energy experts highlight the broader implications. The Barakah plant’s role in diversifying UAE energy away from hydrocarbons makes it a high-value target. Any sustained disruption could affect power supply stability, though officials insist current impact remains minimal.
International reaction has been swift. Qatar strongly condemned the attack as a serious threat to regional security. Jordan termed it a violation of UAE sovereignty and international law. The IAEA offered technical assistance while monitoring the situation closely.
UAE officials have activated heightened security protocols around critical infrastructure. Air defense readiness remains elevated following the western border breach.
This development adds pressure on diplomatic channels attempting to stabilize the Gulf. With the Strait of Hormuz already a flashpoint, attacks on energy facilities risk wider economic fallout affecting global oil markets and shipping routes.
Saudi and UAE coordination has historically proven effective in countering shared threats. Observers expect closer intelligence sharing and possible joint defensive posture enhancements in coming days.
The incident underscores vulnerabilities in the region’s ambitious clean energy programs. Nuclear facilities, while heavily protected, now face evolving drone warfare tactics employed in ongoing conflicts.
As investigations proceed, authorities in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh are expected to update the public on findings. The UAE has pledged a firm response calibrated to deter future attempts while avoiding unnecessary escalation.
Regional leaders continue to emphasize the need for dialogue and restraint. Yet repeated strikes on civilian infrastructure test the limits of patience among Gulf Cooperation Council members.
The Barakah event has drawn global attention to the intersection of nuclear energy development and geopolitical tensions. For now, the plant stands secure, operations intact, but the message of vulnerability lingers across the Arabian Peninsula.