UAE intercepts missiles and drones in latest Iranian attacks

The United Arab Emirates said its air defenses intercepted eight ballistic missiles, four cruise missiles, and 36 unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran on Tuesday, according to the state news agency WAM.

The UAE Ministry of Defence said the strikes marked the latest in a series of attacks. Since the campaign began, air defenses have engaged 433 ballistic missiles, 19 cruise missiles, and 1,977 UAVs, it said.

The attacks killed two members of the UAE armed forces while on duty, along with a Moroccan civilian contracted by the military. Additional fatalities included nationals from Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Palestine, and India, bringing the total to eight.

A total of 188 people were injured, ranging from minor to severe injuries. The wounded included citizens and residents from more than 25 countries, including the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Turkey, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden, and Tunisia.

The Ministry of Defense said it remains fully prepared to respond to any threats and will protect the country's sovereignty, security, and stability, as well as its national interests and capabilities.

The UAE, a key Gulf state bordering the Strait of Hormuz, has faced repeated attacks in recent months amid rising tensions with Iran.

The country hosts major energy infrastructure and international trade hubs, making it a critical player in regional stability.