The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed that drones targeting its Barakah nuclear power plant originated from Iraqi territory, likely launched by Iranian-backed Shiite militias. The attack caused a fire near the plant but resulted in no injuries or radiation leaks, according to authorities.
The UAE’s Defense Ministry stated that the drones came from Iraq, suggesting involvement by militias that have previously targeted Gulf Arab states since the U.S. and Israel began their war with Iran on February 28. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, though Iran and its proxies have been suspected. The UAE has accused Iran of launching drone and missile attacks even after a ceasefire with the U.S. began on April 8.
U.S. President Donald Trump, who had planned military strikes against Iran, postponed them on Monday, citing ongoing negotiations. He initially set a deadline of two to three days for Iran to make progress but later extended it to early next week. Tensions remain high over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy waterway, where Iran maintains a chokehold while U.S. naval blockades persist. Maritime data shows ship traffic through the strait has increased but remains below pre-war levels.
The UAE has hosted air defenses and personnel from Israel, and Emirati officials have intensified rhetoric against Iran. Meanwhile, the U.S. and its Sunni Arab allies, including Saudi Arabia, view Iran’s regime as a defining ideological nemesis. The alliance between the U.S. and these monarchies has been based on American security guarantees in exchange for reliable energy supplies and economic investments.