By Jan Porch l May 17, 2026
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned a drone attack targeting an electricity generator near the Barakah nuclear energy plant in the United Arab Emirates, warning that the incident threatens regional security and stability amid rising tensions across the Gulf.
In a statement released by the Saudi Foreign Ministry, the Kingdom expressed solidarity with the UAE and reaffirmed its support for all measures aimed at protecting Emirati sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security. The ministry described the attack as a dangerous escalation with potential consequences for regional peace and civilian safety.
The drone strike targeted a generator located outside the perimeter of the Barakah nuclear power facility in the Al-Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi. UAE authorities said the resulting fire was quickly contained and confirmed that the nuclear plant itself was not affected, with all operational systems continuing to function normally.
The UAE did not publicly identify who launched the drone or where it originated from. However, the incident comes during a fragile ceasefire linked to the broader Middle East conflict involving Iran, Gulf states, Israel, and the United States. Regional tensions have remained elevated since February following coordinated US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and subsequent retaliatory attacks across the Gulf.
Kuwait and Bahrain also condemned the attack, with Kuwait warning that targeting peaceful nuclear facilities constitutes a violation of international law and poses serious environmental and humanitarian risks. Bahrain praised the UAE’s air defense response and reiterated its support for Abu Dhabi. Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit similarly denounced the strike while welcoming reports that the situation had been brought under control.
The attack has intensified concerns over the vulnerability of critical infrastructure across the Gulf region. In recent months, several Gulf countries have faced repeated missile and drone attacks linked to the widening regional conflict. Saudi Arabia itself has experienced multiple strikes targeting oil infrastructure, military facilities, and civilian areas since the outbreak of hostilities earlier this year.
Despite increasing military tensions, Gulf states continue to push for diplomatic de-escalation. Reports published this week indicated that Saudi Arabia has sought to balance defensive military actions with ongoing communication channels aimed at preventing a broader regional war.