UAE intercepts missiles, UAVs in latest Iranian attack

The United Arab Emirates’ air defense systems intercepted six ballistic missiles and nine unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran on Friday, the Ministry of Defense said.

Since the start of the recent Iranian attacks, UAE defenses have engaged a total of 378 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,835 UAVs, officials added.

The attacks killed two UAE armed forces members performing national duty and a Moroccan civilian contracted by the military. Eight other people of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian and Indian nationality also died, the ministry reported.

A total of 171 people were injured, with cases ranging from minor to severe. Those injured include nationals from 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 UAE Ministry of Defence said it is fully prepared to respond to any threats and will firmly confront attempts to undermine the country’s security, sovereignty, and stability.

The strikes come amid escalating tensions between Iran and Gulf states, with the UAE repeatedly targeted in recent months. The UAE has emphasized its commitment to protecting national interests and ensuring the safety of residents and foreign nationals within its borders.