19 May 2026 20:25 UTC · UK Government · GOV.UK Speech · Source · Email X Link

UK Government condemns attack on Barakah nuclear facility

Key points

Condemns attack and calls to protect civilians
Calls on Iran to cease attacks and engage in negotiations

TL;DR

UK thanks IAEA and welcomes UAE participation; reports no radiation rise or injuries.
UK condemns the Barakah attack, calls for protection of civilians and adherence to international law.
UK urges Iran to cease attacks, supports Resolution 2817, and seeks diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Original text

I thank Director General Grossi for his briefing. And I welcome the participation of the permanent representative of the UAE in our meeting today. Let me also take this opportunity to thank Dr Grossi and staff at the International Atomic Energy Agency for their professionalism and dedication in delivering essential work on nuclear safety, security, and safeguards, often in the most challenging circumstances. The United Kingdom condemns this attack on the Barakah nuclear facility in the United Arab Emirates, in the strongest terms. This was a reckless attack which could have had severe consequences for nuclear safety and for regional security. We welcome reports that radiation levels remain normal and that no injuries have been reported. We call on all parties to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and to apply, respect, and uphold international law, including the UN Charter and international humanitarian law. Such actions risk further escalation at a time of heightened tensions. President, looking to the wider region, we welcome action from the Council, led by the Gulf, to address increased tensions and instability. Resolution 2817 is clear. Iran must cease all attacks, including in the Strait of Hormuz. These attacks continue to threaten global security and prosperity, increase economic pressure on the most vulnerable, and put civilian lives in danger. The United Kingdom stands firmly alongside the UAE and all our partners in the region in support of their sovereignty, security, and protection of critical national infrastructure. We will continue to pursue all diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, including here in the Security Council while providing practical support to help defend our friends in the Gulf. Colleagues, the situation in the Middle East remains fragile. We all want to see a de-escalation of tensions in the region. Together, we must do all we can to support and sustain the ceasefire. We call on Iran to engage meaningfully in negotiations, and to move towards lasting and sustainable peace.

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Director General Grossi

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Barakah nuclear facility