UAE says it intercepts 10 missiles, 45 drones from Iran

The United Arab Emirates said its air defense systems intercepted 10 ballistic missiles and 45 unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran on March 17, according to the state-run Emirates News Agency (WAM).

WAM reported that the interceptions took place on March 17, 2026, amid what it described as ongoing Iranian aggression.

Since the onset of the attacks, UAE air defenses have engaged 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,672 UAVs, WAM said.

The reported attacks have resulted in the deaths of two members of the UAE armed forces while performing their national duty.

Six civilians of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi and Palestinian nationalities were also killed, the agency said.

A total of 157 people were injured, with wounds ranging from minor to moderate and severe, according to WAM.

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 report said.

The UAE Ministry of Defence said it remains fully prepared to address any threats and will firmly confront attempts to undermine state security.

The ministry said it would act in a manner that ensures the protection of the country’s sovereignty, security and stability, and safeguards its national interests and capabilities.

The UAE, a federation of seven emirates located on the Arabian Peninsula, is a key economic and aviation hub in the Middle East.