Fire breaks out near Barakah nuclear plant after drone strike

Emirati officials confirmed on Sunday that a drone strike sparked a fire near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra Region, emphasizing that radiation levels remained unaffected and the facility continued normal operations.

Safety measures implemented

The Abu Dhabi Media Office said on X that authorities responded to the blaze in an electrical generator located outside the inner perimeter of the facility. “No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological safety levels,” the office said, adding that all precautionary measures have been implemented. The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation confirmed that the fire did not compromise the plant's safety or essential systems, noting that all units remain fully operational.

Gulf tensions persist

Regional tensions have escalated since the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran in February, prompting Tehran to retaliate against American allies in the Gulf including the United Arab Emirates. The conflict has seen Iran close the strategic Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for global oil shipments — and target facilities across the region.

A ceasefire took effect on April 8 following Pakistani mediation, though subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to secure a lasting agreement. US President Donald Trump later extended the truce indefinitely, according to regional diplomatic sources.