{"id":42697,"date":"2026-05-20T11:24:16","date_gmt":"2026-05-20T11:24:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/?p=42697"},"modified":"2026-05-20T11:37:37","modified_gmt":"2026-05-20T11:37:37","slug":"uaes-gargash-criticizes-politics-of-chaos-and-coercion-from-hormuz-to-barakah","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/2026\/05\/20\/uaes-gargash-criticizes-politics-of-chaos-and-coercion-from-hormuz-to-barakah\/","title":{"rendered":"UAE\u2019s Gargash criticizes politics of chaos and coercion \u201cfrom Hormuz to Barakah\u201d."},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Fresh details emerging from the investigation into the recent drone incident at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant have intensified regional tensions and renewed concerns over security threats facing the Gulf. According to findings released by UAE authorities, the drones involved in the May 17 attack were launched from Iraqi territory, raising alarms over the growing influence of armed militias operating outside state control.<\/p>

The incident prompted a sharp response from Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, who strongly criticized what he described as a dangerous culture of instability, intimidation, and political coercion spreading across the region. Speaking after the investigation results became public, Gargash warned that such attacks are not isolated acts, but part of a wider pattern that threatens regional peace, economic stability, and international security.<\/p>

On May 17, the UAE confirmed that a drone strike had caused a fire near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, located in Abu Dhabi. Officials stated that three drones were detected approaching the facility. Air defense systems successfully intercepted two of them before impact, while the third drone managed to hit an electrical generator situated outside the plant\u2019s internal security perimeter. Authorities emphasized that the incident did not compromise the safety of the nuclear facility itself.<\/p>

The Abu Dhabi Media Office later clarified that the fire was quickly brought under control and caused no casualties or radiation leaks. Officials stressed that operational systems inside the plant remained secure and that radiation levels were unaffected. Despite the limited physical damage, the attack triggered serious concern due to the sensitive nature of the targeted facility and the broader implications for regional security.<\/p>

Barakah is regarded as one of the UAE\u2019s most significant strategic infrastructure projects and serves as the country\u2019s first peaceful nuclear energy plant. Because of its importance to national energy security and regional development, any threat against the site is viewed as a major escalation. Gargash described the targeting of such a civilian facility as deeply alarming and warned that it reflects the increasing boldness of armed groups operating across the region.<\/p>

Commenting on the investigation, Gargash pointed directly to Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, accusing them of contributing to instability and undermining the authority of sovereign states. He argued that the attack on Barakah demonstrates the dangers posed by non-state actors possessing advanced military capabilities and acting beyond the control of legitimate governments.<\/p>

According to Gargash, the strike also highlights the growing erosion of international legal norms. He stated that attacks against peaceful nuclear facilities violate established international agreements and conventions designed to protect civilian infrastructure during periods of conflict. He specifically referred to the 1977 Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions, which prohibits attacks on installations containing dangerous forces when such attacks could endanger civilian populations.<\/p>

In addition, he cited United Nations Security Council Resolution 487 of 1981, which emphasizes the protection of peaceful nuclear facilities from military aggression. Gargash argued that the Barakah incident represents a clear breach of these principles and warned that ignoring such violations could encourage further attacks on critical infrastructure throughout the region.<\/p>

The UAE official described the drone strike as a deliberate criminal act intended to spread fear and destabilize the Gulf. He also drew comparisons between the Barakah incident and threats involving the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world\u2019s most important maritime trade routes. According to him, both situations represent attempts to pressure the international community through disruption of global economic systems.<\/p>

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical passage for global energy supplies, with nearly one-fifth of the world\u2019s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passing through the narrow waterway. Rising tensions linked to Iran\u2019s confrontation with Israel and the United States have already heightened fears over possible disruptions to maritime traffic in the Gulf. Gargash argued that combining threats against energy infrastructure with pressure on shipping lanes creates a dangerous environment capable of affecting markets far beyond the Middle East.<\/p>

He warned that attacks on facilities like Barakah are not simply regional security issues, but matters with global consequences. Disruptions to energy production, transportation routes, and strategic infrastructure can trigger economic instability, impact international trade, and threaten energy security for countries around the world.<\/p>

Gargash further stressed that the region cannot achieve long-term stability while armed factions continue operating independently of state institutions. He argued that the weakening of national governments and the rise of militias have contributed to cycles of violence, political fragmentation, and external interference across several Middle Eastern countries.<\/p>

The UAE has repeatedly called for stronger international cooperation to counter threats posed by militant groups and to ensure the protection of civilian and strategic infrastructure. Officials in Abu Dhabi have also emphasized the importance of respecting international law and maintaining freedom of navigation in critical waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz.<\/p>

Security analysts say the Barakah incident underscores the evolving nature of modern conflict, where relatively inexpensive drones can be used to target highly sensitive facilities. The use of unmanned aerial systems by militias and non-state actors has become increasingly common in regional conflicts, complicating defense efforts and raising new security challenges for governments.<\/p>

Although UAE authorities confirmed that the attack caused only limited damage, experts note that the symbolic significance of targeting a nuclear facility carries serious implications. Even unsuccessful attacks on such sites can generate public anxiety, affect investor confidence, and escalate geopolitical tensions.<\/p>

In the aftermath of the incident, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest safety and security standards at Barakah. Officials stressed that the plant\u2019s multiple protective systems functioned effectively and prevented any threat to public safety or the environment.<\/p>

Meanwhile, regional observers continue to monitor the broader political consequences of the attack and the possibility of increased diplomatic tensions involving Iraq, Iran, and Gulf states. The incident has renewed debate over the role of militias in regional conflicts and the responsibility of governments to prevent their territories from being used to launch attacks against neighboring countries.<\/p>

For the UAE, the strike on Barakah represents more than a security breach. Officials see it as part of a larger challenge involving regional instability, armed militias, and attempts to use strategic threats as tools of political pressure. Gargash\u2019s comments reflected growing concern that continued tolerance for such actions could further weaken international norms and increase the risk of wider conflict across the Middle East.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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About Barakah<\/h3>

Situated in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi, the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant stands as a landmark achievement for the United Arab Emirates and the wider Arab world. The facility is recognized as the first fully operational commercial nuclear power station in the Arab region, representing a major step in the UAE\u2019s long-term strategy to diversify its energy resources and reduce reliance on conventional fossil fuels. Over the past decade, Barakah has evolved from an ambitious national project into one of the Middle East\u2019s most significant energy developments, highlighting the country\u2019s efforts to build a modern, sustainable, and technologically advanced economy.<\/p>

The nuclear power plant is equipped with four APR1400 nuclear reactors, a design developed by South Korea that is considered among the most advanced reactor technologies currently in operation. These reactors were designed with a strong emphasis on efficiency, reliability, and safety, incorporating multiple layers of protection and advanced engineering systems. Together, the four reactors are capable of generating approximately 5,600 megawatts of electricity, making Barakah one of the largest clean energy facilities in the region.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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With all four units now operational, the plant has become a critical pillar of the UAE\u2019s national power grid. The electricity produced by Barakah supplies as much as one-quarter of the country\u2019s total electricity demand. This contribution has significantly strengthened the UAE\u2019s energy security by ensuring a stable and continuous source of power for homes, businesses, industries, and infrastructure projects across the country.<\/p>

Beyond increasing electricity generation capacity, the Barakah project has also transformed the UAE\u2019s energy strategy in broader economic and environmental terms. By replacing a substantial portion of gas-fired electricity production, the nuclear plant allows the country to conserve valuable natural gas resources that were previously consumed domestically for power generation. These gas reserves can instead be redirected toward export markets or industrial use, creating additional economic opportunities for the UAE and supporting its position as a major global energy supplier.<\/p>

At the same time, the nuclear energy programme contributes significantly to the country\u2019s climate and sustainability goals. Nuclear power generates electricity without producing carbon emissions during operation, making it an important component of the UAE\u2019s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition toward cleaner energy sources. Officials have repeatedly emphasized that Barakah plays a key role in helping the nation meet international climate commitments while supporting economic growth and rising energy demand.<\/p>

The origins of the Barakah project date back to the late 2000s, when the UAE announced plans to develop a peaceful nuclear energy programme as part of its long-term national development strategy. In 2009, the country awarded a construction contract worth approximately $20 billion to a consortium led by Korea Electric Power Corporation, commonly known as KEPCO. The agreement marked a historic milestone not only for the UAE but also for South Korea, as it represented Seoul\u2019s first major export of nuclear reactor technology to an international market.<\/p>

The decision to partner with South Korean companies reflected the UAE\u2019s focus on adopting proven reactor technology and collaborating with experienced international operators. The KEPCO-led consortium brought together expertise from multiple sectors of the nuclear industry, including engineering, reactor construction, operations, and maintenance. The project quickly became one of the largest infrastructure developments ever undertaken in the Gulf region.<\/p>

Construction activities at the Barakah site officially began in 2012. Over the following years, thousands of engineers, technicians, and workers from around the world participated in the development of the facility. The project required the construction of highly specialized infrastructure, advanced safety systems, cooling mechanisms, and extensive support facilities necessary for long-term nuclear operations.<\/p>

As work progressed, the UAE emphasized strict regulatory oversight and international cooperation to ensure that the programme met global standards for safety, transparency, and non-proliferation. Regulatory authorities conducted extensive reviews and inspections throughout the construction process, while operators underwent years of technical training and preparation before the reactors became operational.<\/p>

A major breakthrough occurred in 2020 when the first reactor at Barakah was successfully connected to the UAE\u2019s national electricity grid. This marked the beginning of commercial nuclear energy production in the Arab world and represented a historic moment for the country\u2019s energy sector. The successful startup demonstrated the UAE\u2019s ability to manage advanced nuclear technology and operate a peaceful civilian nuclear programme according to international standards.<\/p>

Following the activation of the first reactor, additional units were gradually brought online after completing regulatory approvals and operational testing. Each reactor underwent extensive safety evaluations before beginning commercial operations. The phased approach allowed operators to carefully monitor performance, implement operational improvements, and ensure smooth integration into the national grid.<\/p>

The final stage of the programme was achieved in 2024, when the fourth and last reactor officially entered commercial service. With all four units functioning, the Barakah facility reached full operational capacity, solidifying its role as one of the most important clean energy projects in the Middle East. The completion of the plant was widely viewed as a major achievement for the UAE\u2019s infrastructure and energy ambitions.<\/p>

One of the defining features of the UAE\u2019s nuclear programme has been its strong commitment to nuclear non-proliferation and international oversight. The framework for this commitment was established through the bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement signed between the United States and the UAE in 2009. Commonly referred to as the \u201c123 Agreement,\u201d the deal takes its name from Section 123 of the US Atomic Energy Act of 1954, which governs civilian nuclear cooperation between the United States and foreign countries.<\/p>

The agreement is widely regarded as one of the strictest and most comprehensive civilian nuclear cooperation frameworks in the world. Under its terms, the UAE committed itself to maintaining the highest standards of transparency, safety, and non-proliferation in exchange for access to American nuclear expertise, technology, and materials.<\/p>

As part of this commitment, the UAE made a legally binding pledge not to pursue domestic uranium enrichment or the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel. These activities are often considered sensitive because they can potentially be used to produce materials associated with nuclear weapons programmes. By voluntarily renouncing these capabilities, the UAE sought to demonstrate that its nuclear programme was exclusively peaceful and focused entirely on civilian energy production.<\/p>

International observers have frequently cited the UAE\u2019s approach as a model for responsible nuclear development in the Middle East. The country has worked closely with organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to ensure compliance with international safeguards and monitoring systems. UAE officials have consistently argued that transparency and cooperation are essential for building global trust in civilian nuclear programmes.<\/p>

The Barakah project has also contributed to the development of a domestic nuclear workforce within the UAE. Over the years, Emirati engineers, scientists, and technical specialists have received advanced training in nuclear operations, reactor management, radiation safety, and energy systems. Universities and technical institutions across the country have expanded educational programmes related to nuclear engineering and energy sciences to support the growing sector.<\/p>

In addition to creating high-skilled jobs, the project has stimulated economic activity in related industries such as construction, engineering services, logistics, manufacturing, and technology development. Supporters of the programme view Barakah not only as an energy project but also as a catalyst for broader economic diversification and technological advancement.<\/p>

From an environmental perspective, the facility is expected to prevent millions of tons of carbon emissions annually by reducing dependence on fossil fuel-based electricity generation. This aligns with the UAE\u2019s long-term sustainability initiatives and its efforts to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.<\/p>

The strategic importance of Barakah has also increased in light of rising regional energy demand and ongoing discussions about global energy transitions. As countries around the world seek reliable low-carbon energy sources, nuclear power is increasingly being considered an important part of future energy systems. For the UAE, Barakah serves as a symbol of modernization, energy independence, and long-term planning.<\/p>

Today, the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant stands as one of the most ambitious infrastructure achievements in the Arab world. Its development reflects years of international cooperation, technological investment, and strategic policymaking. By combining advanced reactor technology with strict non-proliferation commitments and sustainability goals, the UAE has positioned itself as a leading example of peaceful nuclear energy development in the region.<\/p>

As the facility continues operating at full capacity, Barakah is expected to remain central to the UAE\u2019s energy landscape for decades to come, providing reliable electricity, supporting economic growth, and contributing to global efforts aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner sources of power.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

UAE diplomat Anwar Gargash strongly condemned the growing trend of instability, intimidation, and political pressure in the region, warning against policies that encourage chaos and threaten security from Hormuz to Barakah.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":42698,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"pmpro_default_level":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"post_template":[],"top_category":[],"class_list":["post-42697","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uae","pmpro-has-access"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42697","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=42697"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42697\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":42703,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/42697\/revisions\/42703"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/42698"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=42697"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=42697"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=42697"},{"taxonomy":"post_template","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_template?post=42697"},{"taxonomy":"top_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/insider18.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/top_category?post=42697"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}