Drone Strike Causes Fire Near UAE Nuclear Plant

A drone strike on May 17 caused a fire at an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra region of the United Arab Emirates. The Abu Dhabi Media Office stated that the fire did not affect the safety of the power plant or the readiness of its essential systems.

All units continued operating normally, and no injuries or radiological release were reported.

The Associated Press reported that the strike sparked a fire at the plant's perimeter. The International Atomic Energy Agency has expressed concern over the incident and is monitoring the situation. The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation confirmed that radiological safety levels remained unaffected.

The UAE has reported repeated Iranian attacks since February 28, 2026. UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar stated that air defenses had intercepted around 3,000 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeting civilian and critical infrastructure.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf has been involved in negotiations between Iran and the United States. Reports indicate Iran is monitoring several Gulf states amid concerns over possible resumption of conflict.