The UAE says drones that targeted its Barakah nuclear power plant came from Iraqi territory

The United Arab Emirates’ Defense Ministry confirmed on Tuesday that drones attacking its Barakah nuclear power plant launched from Iraqi territory. Emirati officials linked the attack to Iranian-backed Shiite militias, which have conducted similar strikes against Gulf states since Israel and the U.S. began military operations against Iran on February 28. No injuries or radioactive leaks occurred, though the attack hit a perimeter generator. At an emergency UN Security Council session, International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi expressed grave concerns about targeting operational nuclear plants. Grossi warned that a direct hit on Barakah could release high levels of radioactivity into the environment. The UAE had previously accused Iran of violating a ceasefire with the U.S., which began April 8, despite claims of compliance. U.S. President Donald Trump indicated willingness to give Iran additional time for negotiations before resuming military strikes, though he initially suggested a short deadline before extending it to early next week. Key disputes include Iran’s refusal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping and demands over its nuclear program, with the U.S. insisting on removing highly enriched uranium to prevent weapons development. The U.S. military’s Central Command reported that its naval blockade has halted 89 commercial vessels since mid-April, while ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz doubled last week but remains below prewar levels. Vice President JD Vance warned that failing to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions could trigger a regional arms race, emphasizing the stakes in ongoing negotiations.