Germany's Merz condemns drone attack near UAE nuclear plant

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday condemned a drone attack that sparked a fire near the United Arab Emirates' Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, warning that strikes on nuclear facilities endanger regional safety and calling on Iran to de-escalate and return to diplomatic talks.

Speaking through the social media platform X, Merz said his government strongly condemned the renewed airstrikes against the UAE and other partners, noting that attacks on nuclear infrastructure pose a threat to people throughout the entire region. "Iran must enter into serious negotiations with the United States, stop threatening its neighbors, and open the Strait of Hormuz without restrictions," he said, renewing his call for a diplomatic solution.

UAE confirms interception

Merz issued his condemnation after UAE authorities reported that air defense systems intercepted two drones and tracked a third that struck an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah facility, sparking a fire. Emirati officials stated there were no injuries and no impact on radiological safety levels, adding that the incident posed no risk to the public or the environment.

Facility background

The Barakah facility — the UAE's first commercial nuclear power plant — represents a critical component of the nation's infrastructure, with officials emphasizing its role in the energy grid. Merz's comments come as regional tensions continue to drive concerns over the safety of strategic installations throughout the Gulf.