UAE Urges Iraq to Investigate Drone Attack on Nuclear Plant
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has called for the Iraqi government to look into a drone strike on the Baraka nuclear power plant, which originated from Iraq. The UAE expects Iraq to take necessary actions to ensure that Iranian-backed groups do not use its territory to conduct further attacks.
Baraka is notable as the only operational nuclear power station in the Arab world. It was developed with international assistance.
Recently, three drones targeted the Baraka facility, two of which were intercepted. Unfortunately, one managed to penetrate its perimeter, causing damage to a generator. Thankfully, there were no injuries or radiation leak reported.
In response, the UN Security Council held an emergency session to address the attack, describing it as a significant threat to the safety of the UAE’s nuclear operations. The Council expressed deep concern, emphasizing that any assault on facilities designed for peaceful purposes is completely unacceptable.
On Tuesday, it was reported that the drones were launched from Iraqi territory, likely by Iranian-aligned Shiite militias, which have been involved in various assaults on neighboring nations.
The Iraqi government has yet to respond directly to the UAE’s assertions but condemned the recent drone assaults on the UAE as a whole. A spokesperson emphasized the need for regional and international cooperation to prevent escalations affecting stability and security.
The UAE has urged Baghdad to immediately halt any hostile actions coming from its land and address these threats responsibly, aligning with pertinent international laws. Sultan Al Jaber, the UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, labeled the Baraka incident a “dangerous escalation” that shows a blatant disregard for civilian lives.
Meanwhile, the Security Council established a “special committee” to communicate with both Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Reports indicate that the Saudi Defense Ministry intercepted three drones from Iraq on the same morning Baraka was hit.
The Iraqi constitution explicitly prohibits the use of its territory for attacks against other countries. However, if the current Iraqi administration hopes to be taken seriously, it will need to impose stricter measures on Shiite militias, which have previously attacked American forces and allies in Iraq. This may pose political challenges, given the strong influence of Shiite politicians loyal to Iran.
Officials from the new Iraqi government have acknowledged the importance of fostering balanced international relations based on mutual respect, highlighting the need for adherence to international law.
The UN’s strong condemnation of the Baraka attack might indicate that Iraq is losing patience with the actions of Shiite militias. Yet, there remains speculation that any investigation might conclude insufficient evidence to implicate these groups or Iran directly.
