UAE affirms right to defend critical infrastructure following drone attack
In a recent telephone conversation with Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, issued a stern condemnation of a drone strike that targeted the vicinity of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant. The attack, which ignited a fire in an electricity generator, was labeled by the Minister as a cowardly act of terrorism. Fortunately, officials confirmed that the incident resulted in no injuries and had no effect on the facility's radiation safety levels.
During the discussion, Sheikh Abdullah emphasized that strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure are clear violations of international law. He asserted that the UAE maintains the absolute right to protect its sovereignty, territory, and citizens, promising to take whatever measures are necessary to ensure national security. Beyond the incident, the two leaders reaffirmed the UAE’s dedication to cooperating with the IAEA, focusing on the peaceful advancement of nuclear energy and upholding the highest global safety and non-proliferation standards.