Drone attack sparks fire near UAE’s Barakah Nuclear Plant

May 17, 2026

A fire broke out outside the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), following a drone attack. According to the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the fire originated in an electrical generator located outside the plant.

Authorities in Abu Dhabi responded to a fire incident that broke out in an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra Region, caused by a drone strike. No injuries were reported, and there was no impact on radiological…

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 17, 2026

No injuries, nuclear safety normal

Officials said no one was injured in the incident and that radiological safety levels were completely normal.

The UAE’s Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation stated that all major systems at the plant were functioning normally and the situation was under control.

Incident amid US-Iran tensions

This incident occurred at a time when talks between the US and Iran are stalled. Tensions in West Asia have escalated significantly in recent months.

According to reports, Iran had previously carried out drone and missile attacks in response to US and Israeli attacks. A temporary ceasefire was later reached between the two sides, but tensions remain high.

Impact on Oil Supply and Shipping

The ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran have also impacted global oil supplies. Blockades in the Strait of Hormuz have affected oil and LNG supplies, leading to a rise in international oil prices.

Talks to end the war between Iran and the United States are currently reported to be stalled.