Photo Credit : WAM
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has praised the UAE authorities for their close cooperation and transparent sharing of technical information following recent developments involving the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, while warning that attacks on nuclear facilities pose serious risks to global nuclear safety and security.
Speaking before the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday, Rafael Mariano Grossi said the agency remains in constant contact with governments across the region and will continue issuing public updates regarding the impact of ongoing conflict on nuclear facilities, including any possible environmental or health-related consequences.
Grossi commended the UAE for its “timely and regular” communication with the IAEA and stressed the importance of immediate coordination with the agency’s Incident and Emergency Centre during such incidents.
The IAEA chief confirmed that radiation levels at the Barakah plant remain normal and that no injuries were reported following a drone strike on Sunday that triggered a fire in an electrical generator located outside the facility’s inner security perimeter.
Grossi warned that military operations targeting nuclear power plants or related infrastructure carry “undeniable risks” and called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint to avoid potentially catastrophic consequences.
He added that the IAEA has been assessing emergency preparedness and response capabilities across the region since last year and revealed plans to travel to the Gulf soon to continue consultations and joint safety efforts.
Reaffirming international legal protections for peaceful nuclear facilities, Grossi stressed that attacks on nuclear sites are unacceptable under international humanitarian law. He also urged all parties involved in conflicts to respect the seven indispensable pillars of nuclear safety and security, warning that any military escalation involving nuclear infrastructure could lead to grave consequences for regional and global stability.
