Nuclear scare in UAE after drone strike near atomic plant

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency warned of the growing dangers facing critical infrastructure after visiting the UAE’s Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, which was struck by a drone attack last month.

According to Emirati officials, one of three drones launched from Iraq penetrated the country’s air defenses and hit an electrical generator outside the plant’s inner perimeter, forcing operators to temporarily shut down a reactor after external power was disrupted.

While no radioactive material was released and the facility remained safe, the incident has raised alarm across the Gulf. The attack highlighted the increasing threat posed by Iranian-backed militias and comes amid ongoing regional tensions following the US-Iran conflict. Repairs are expected to be completed within weeks.

Barakah Nuclear Power PlantIAEARafael GrossiUAE