UAE says air defenses intercept nine UAVs launched from Iran

The United Arab Emirates’ air defense systems engaged nine unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran on Wednesday, the state news agency Emirates News Agency reported.

The agency, also known as WAM, said the interceptions were part of ongoing responses since what it described as the onset of “blatant Iranian aggression.”

Since the start of the attacks, UAE air defenses have engaged 357 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,815 UAVs, according to WAM.

The reported attacks have resulted in the deaths of three members of the UAE armed forces while performing their duties.

Six other fatalities were reported among foreign nationals, including citizens of Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Palestine.

A total of 166 people were injured, with injuries ranging from minor to severe, WAM said.

Those injured included nationals of 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 remains fully prepared to address any threats and would firmly confront attempts to undermine state security.

The ministry said it would act to protect the country’s sovereignty, security and stability, and safeguard its national interests and capabilities.