Gulf condemnation following the attack on the Barakah nuclear power plant in the UAE
The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Mr. Jassem Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, strongly condemned the heinous terrorist attack targeting the territory of the United Arab Emirates. Gulf and international condemnation focused particularly on the attempted attack on Nuclear Power Plant , where three explosive-laden drones were detected and launched towards Emirati territory. One of these drones targeted the vicinity of the vital plant located in the Al Dhafra region. In his official statement, Mr. Al-Budaiwi emphasized that this hostile act constitutes a dangerous military escalation and a direct threat that cannot be tolerated, as it undermines the security and stability of the entire region and endangers the lives of innocent civilians.
The strategic and historical importance of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant project
To understand the gravity of this event, it is essential to consider the broader context. The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant an unprecedented historical achievement for the United Arab Emirates, being the first commercial nuclear power plant for peaceful purposes in the Arab world. Located in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi, this strategic facility plays a pivotal role in the UAE's national strategy to transition to clean energy sources and reduce carbon emissions to combat climate change. Since the gradual commissioning of its advanced reactors, the plant has contributed significantly and sustainably to meeting the country's electricity needs, thus bolstering sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. Targeting a civilian and peaceful facility of this size and importance is not only a blatant attack on the sovereignty of an independent state, but also a desperate attempt to undermine peaceful development efforts and technological advancement in the Middle East region.
The regional and international repercussions of the attack on the Barakah nuclear power plant
In a related context, the Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council warned that these treacherous and systematic attacks constitute a flagrant violation of all international laws, conventions, and norms, particularly the Geneva Conventions and their protocols relating to the protection of vital and nuclear facilities during armed conflicts. Any harm to the safety of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant could have catastrophic repercussions extending beyond the geographical borders of the UAE, directly impacting environmental, regional, and international security. Targeting nuclear facilities, even those protected by the highest international safety standards, threatens the safety of millions of civilians in the region and exposes the marine and terrestrial environment to long-term radioactive risks. Furthermore, such attacks have a direct and negative impact on the stability of global energy supplies and the international economy, which is already suffering from sharp fluctuations and complex geopolitical challenges.
Absolute Gulf solidarity with the UAE's security measures
In concluding his firm statement, Professor Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi emphasized the unwavering and steadfast position of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in support of the United Arab Emirates in confronting these threats. He affirmed that the six GCC member states stand united and fully behind the UAE leadership in all security and military measures it is taking to preserve its national security and internal stability, and to protect the safety of its citizens and residents from any external aggression. This swift and strong solidarity reflects the depth of the fraternal ties and shared destiny that unite the Gulf Arab states, and confirms to the world that the security of the United Arab Emirates is an integral part of the comprehensive Gulf national security system, and that any threat to it will be met with unwavering resolve and unity.
