Nuclear watchdog praises UAE response to drone strike on Barakah plant

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has commended the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for its swift and effective response to a drone strike on the Barakah nuclear plant in May. The drone, launched from Iraq, targeted a generator outside the inner perimeter of the plant, resulting in a fire that was subsequently extinguished.

In response to the attack, dozens of nations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, the UK, the US, France, Pakistan, and the European Union, issued a joint condemnation statement. The IAEA's assessment found that the UAE's national authorities and the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) handled the situation appropriately following the May 17 incident.

This determination was made by a six-person IAEA mission team that visited the UAE from October 12 to October 20 at the UAE government's request. The team's evaluation included assessing the plant's response actions, national emergency preparedness and response arrangements, and the lessons learned from the event. Key areas of focus for the team were the plant's emergency response procedures, reactor operator safety arrangements, and the overall safety measures implemented by BNPP.

The IAEA praised the UAE for its commitment to safety and continuous improvement, emphasizing that the nation's nuclear emergency preparedness and response system aligns with the highest international standards. These standards were developed through close cooperation with the IAEA. Hamad Al Kaabi, the director general of the UAE's Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation, highlighted the country's dedication to protecting nuclear facilities and ensuring the safety and security of its nuclear facilities.

Al Kaabi also expressed the UAE's commitment to working closely with the IAEA and national partners to further enhance safety and environmental protection.