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Gulf countries, Egypt condemn attack near UAE's Barakah nuclear plant
On May 17, the country confirmed that UAE air defences engaged three drones; two were intercepted, while the third struck the generator near the plant
- PUBLISHED: Mon 18 May 2026, 12:18 AM UPDATED: Mon 18 May 2026, 9:47 AM
[Editor's Note: Follow the Khaleej Times live blog for the latest regional developments with the US-Israel-Iran ceasefire now in effect.]
After UAE reported that a drone strike caused a fire in an electricity generator in the vicinity of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra, authorities said they were investigating the source of the attacks.
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On May 17, the country confirmed that UAE air defences engaged three drones; two were intercepted, while the third struck the electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah plant.
Top officials and bodies have condemned the attack; several countries also confirmed that they stand in solidarity with UAE.
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Saudi Arabia
The country expressed its "strongest condemnation" of the attack, pointing out that such attacks threaten the security and stability of the regiobn.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also voiced support for the measures that UAE takes to preserve its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.
Kuwait
Kuwait's statement termed the attack as a "heinous act" and a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the UAE.
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that targeting vital and civilian sites is condemned and "rejected by all legal standards."
Egypt
Egypt condemned the attack near the Barakah plant, describing the incident as a "dangerous escalation" and a clear violation of UAE sovereignty and international law.
The country also stressed that the security of the UAE and other Gulf states is an integral part of Egyptian national security.
Bahrain
The Gulf country denounced the drone attack, pointing out that it is a flagrant violation of international law.
Bahrain said that such an attack is a violation of the UN Charter, the principles of good neighbourliness, and UN Security Council Resolution 2817.
Jordan
Jordan on Sunday condemned the drone attack, calling it a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the UAE and a threat to its security, stability, and territorial integrity.
The Ministry of Foreign and Expatriate Affairs said in a statement that Jordan stands in full solidarity with the UAE and supports all measures it takes to protect its sovereignty, security, and the safety of its citizens and residents.
Oman
Oman's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned and denounced the attack in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafrah region. The Sultanate affirmed its solidarity with the UAE regarding the measures it is taking to preserve its security and the safety of its territories.
It also reaffirmed its steadfast policy of rejecting all hostile and escalatory acts, and called for dialogue to address issues and challenges, in order to preserve security and stability in the region, respect the rules of international law, the policy of good neighborliness, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states.
GCC Sec-Gen condemns attack
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohammed Albudaiwi strongly condemned what he described as the “blatant aggression” against the UAE involving three drones.
Albudaiwi warned that such actions could have severe consequences for regional and international security, civilian safety, the environment, and global energy supplies.
Poojaraj Maniyeri is a Digital Journalist who loves turning everyday conversations into news stories. She is also a typical bookworm, and brings a novel with her everywhere she goes.