A DRONE strike targeted the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) sole nuclear power plant yesterday, sparking a fire on its perimeter. There were no reports of injuries or radiological release.

The attack on the Barakah plant highlights the risk of renewed war as the Iran ceasefire remains tenuous.

No-one immediately claimed responsibility, and the UAE did not blame anyone. It has however accused Iran of launching multiple drone and missile attacks in recent days as tensions have risen over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy waterway that Iran still has in a chokehold.

The United States is blockading Iranian ports and diplomatic efforts aimed at a more durable peace have repeatedly faltered.

The UAE has meanwhile hosted air defences and personnel from Israel, which joined the US in the February 28 attack that sparked the war.

US President Donald Trump has suggested hostilities could resume, and Iranian state television has repeatedly aired segments with anchors holding Kalashnikov-style rifles in an effort to prepare the public for war. 

Fighting has also heated up between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon despite a nominal ceasefire there, further straining the wider truce.

The $20 billion (£14.7bn) Barakah nuclear power plant was built by the UAE with the help of South Korea and went online in 2020. 

It is the first and only nuclear power plant in the Arab world and can provide a quarter of all the energy needs in the UAE.

The UAE’s nuclear regulator said the fire didn’t affect plant safety and that “all units are operating as normal.” 

Two sources familiar with the situation, including an Israeli military officer, said Israel is co-ordinating with the US about a possible resumption of attacks. 

Speaking to his cabinet on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said “our eyes are also open” when it comes to Iran. 

He added: “We are prepared for any scenario.”