WANO Statement on the Situation at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant Read more about WANO Statement on the Situation at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant

WANO Statement on the Situation at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant

WANO is closely monitoring the situation at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in the United Arab Emirates following a drone strike on 17 May. No injuries have been reported at this time and radiation levels remain within normal ranges.

While there is currently no indication of impact on nuclear safety systems, this incident is of serious concern given the proximity of the strike to an operating nuclear facility. WANO's position is unconditional and unequivocal: nuclear power plants must not be targeted or placed at risk, under any circumstances - including during armed conflict.

WANO reaffirms the WANO Governing Board's Special Resolution on the Safety of Nuclear Power Plants (2024) and its support for the IAEA Seven Pillars of Nuclear Safety and Security and Five Concrete Principles for the protection of nuclear facilities. Any military activity that may impact nuclear facilities, personnel, or supporting infrastructure is incompatible with the conditions required to maintain nuclear safety.

WANO will continue to monitor developments closely and remains ready to support its members as appropriate.