Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, said restoring external power to Unit 3 of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant marked an important step for safety after the incident. The strike caused a fire at an electrical generator near the facility, temporarily disrupting off-site power supply.
Grossi said the restoration meant the reactor no longer relied on emergency diesel generators, reducing immediate risk. Grossi stressed that nuclear installations must not be targeted under any circumstances.
The incident comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, following strikes involving the United States, Israel and Iran, with retaliatory actions reported across the Gulf region.
According to reports, the Barakah facility provides about a quarter of the UAE’s electricity needs, underscoring the strategic importance of the infrastructure.
The United Nations Secretary General António Guterres also expressed concern over the attack. Guterres said the incident highlights the dangers of continued escalation in the region and called for an immediate halt to hostilities.
Guterres warned that attacks near civilian infrastructure, particularly nuclear plants, pose serious risks and violate international law. Guterres said such actions are unacceptable and must be condemned.
The IAEA has repeatedly cautioned that military activity near nuclear facilities increases the risk of severe consequences, including potential environmental and humanitarian impacts.
Grossi reiterated that safeguarding nuclear safety during conflict remains a global priority, calling on all parties to avoid actions that could endanger critical infrastructure.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
