Countries across the Gulf and the wider Middle East have strongly condemned the drone attack near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region, reaffirming their solidarity with the UAE.
The UAE on May 17 confirmed that its air defence systems intercepted two drones, while a third drone struck an electricity generator located outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah plant, causing a fire. Authorities said investigations are underway to determine the source of the attack.
Several regional governments and international bodies denounced the incident, warning against threats to regional security and stability.
Saudi Arabia expressed its “strongest condemnation” of the attack, saying such actions threaten the security and stability of the region. The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reiterated its support for measures taken by the UAE to safeguard its sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
Kuwait described the incident as a “heinous act” and a blatant violation of UAE sovereignty. Kuwait’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that attacks targeting civilian and vital infrastructure are condemned and rejected under all legal standards.
Egypt condemned the strike near the Barakah plant, calling it a “dangerous escalation” and a clear violation of international law and UAE sovereignty. Cairo also emphasised that the security of Gulf nations, including the UAE, forms an integral part of Egypt’s national security.
Bahrain denounced the drone attack as a flagrant breach of international law, adding that it violated the UN Charter, principles of good neighbourliness and UN Security Council Resolution 2817.
Jordan also condemned the incident, describing it as a threat to the UAE’s security, stability and territorial integrity. In a statement, Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign and Expatriate Affairs affirmed full solidarity with the UAE and backed all measures aimed at protecting the country and its residents.
Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack in Al Dhafra and reaffirmed the Sultanate’s support for the UAE’s efforts to maintain security and territorial safety. Oman also reiterated its rejection of hostile and escalatory actions, calling for dialogue and adherence to international law and non-interference principles to preserve regional stability.
Meanwhile, Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Mohammed Albudaiwi strongly condemned what he described as “blatant aggression” involving three drones targeting the UAE.
Albudaiwi warned that such attacks could have serious consequences for regional and international security, civilian safety, the environment and global energy supplies.