IAEA monitors developments at UAE's Barakah nuclear plant

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), affiliated with the United Nations, has stated that it is closely monitoring the situation at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in Abu Dhabi following the drone attack on Sunday.

Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for the UN Secretary-General, stated that the agency is working closely with the relevant UAE authorities, and expressed its full readiness to provide assistance if needed.

He also renewed the Secretary-General’s deep concern over reports received by the United Nations indicating that drone attacks yesterday caused a fire in an electricity generator within the vicinity of the Barakah plant.

Haq stressed that any attacks on nuclear facilities are completely unacceptable and must be condemned as a flagrant violation of international law, adding that no further attacks should be carried out near civilian infrastructure, including nuclear power stations.

The Deputy Spokesman also referred to the Secretary-General’s repeated warnings against any further escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, noting that reports of the attack near the Barakah plant constitute an additional reason compelling all parties to completely halt the fighting.

Haq also addressed issues regarding the Strait of Hormuz, noting that Iran's position could create a "major global problem", including shortages in fuel and fertilisers that will lead to rising inflation rates, slower economic growth, and a future food crisis that can also harm developing countries.

He reiterated the Secretary-General’s firm position, stressing the necessity of restoring freedom of navigation in the region in accordance with the law of the sea and other relevant international laws.