ISLAMABAD: The United Arab Emirates has announced the destruction of six enemy drones over the past 48 hours as regional tensions remain high following a drone strike on the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant on May 17.
UAE authorities stated that the drones involved in the May 17 incident approached from the western border direction, consistent with claims pointing towards Iraqi airspace.
The strike sparked a fire at an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the plant but caused no injuries or radiation release.
The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed successful interceptions in subsequent operations, bringing the total destroyed to six within two days. Defence officials described the actions as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard critical infrastructure amid heightened threats.
The Barakah plant, located in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region approximately 225 kilometres west of the capital, houses four reactors and supplies up to a quarter of the UAE’s electricity needs.
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation operates the facility, which began commercial operations in recent years.
Officials from the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) reported that emergency diesel generators supported Unit 3 immediately after the incident. Off-site power was restored on May 18, with radiation levels remaining normal throughout.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is monitoring the situation and has called for maximum restraint near nuclear installations.
UAE statements highlighted that three drones entered territory on May 17, with two intercepted before impact.
The third struck the generator, triggering the fire that was quickly contained. Investigations continue to establish the precise origin and operators behind the attack.
This marks the first direct targeting of the Barakah facility amid the broader regional conflict involving Iran and its allies. Saudi Arabia has also reported intercepting drones entering from Iraqi directions in related incidents.
The attacks occur against a backdrop of escalating drone and missile activity in the Gulf.
UAE air defence systems, equipped with advanced interceptors, have engaged hundreds of threats in recent months, according to periodic defence ministry updates. No casualty figures were reported from the latest interceptions.
Regional reactions have focused on the risks to civilian nuclear infrastructure.
The UN Secretary-General expressed alarm, while several Gulf states condemned the strike as a dangerous escalation. Oil markets showed initial volatility following the news, though prices stabilised as containment was confirmed.
Analysts note that the incident underscores vulnerabilities in Gulf energy security despite significant investments in air defence.
The Barakah plant represents a multi-billion dollar strategic asset for the UAE’s diversification away from hydrocarbons. Its protection remains a priority for Abu Dhabi and its partners.
Further defensive measures and diplomatic engagements are expected in the coming days. UAE officials have reiterated their right to respond to threats while calling for de-escalation to prevent broader instability in the region.
Investigations into the drone origins are likely to influence future security posture along western borders.