The UAE Ministry of Defense announced that it succeeded in intercepting a large-scale attack using Iranian ballistic missiles and drones, confirming the high readiness and effectiveness of its air defense systems.The ministry said in a statement that the UAE Air Force and Air Defense Forces “succeeded, since the start of the Iranian attack, in intercepting and destroying 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones launched towards the country’s territory, which confirms the high readiness of the air defense systems and their ability to deal with various threats.”
Iran destroys US national defenses; American bases are subjected to shocking attacks, and its allies in the Gulf are under fire
She added: “137 Iranian ballistic missiles were detected and launched towards the country, and 132 of them were destroyed, while 5 fell into the sea.”
In addition, 209 Iranian drones were detected, 195 of which were intercepted, while 14 aircraft fell within the country’s territory and waters, causing some collateral damage.
The Ministry confirmed that fragments of the intercepted missiles and drones caused minor material damage to civilian property. The statement said: “The concerned authorities moved immediately and with full readiness and capabilities to deal with the situation in accordance with the procedures adopted in such cases.”
The authorities reported the death of a civilian of Asian nationality as a result of falling debris, stressing that the general security situation in the UAE “remains stable” and that all parties are monitoring developments around the clock.The UAE Ministry strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as “a dangerous escalation and a cowardly act that threatens the security and safety of civilians and undermines stability.” She stressed that such targeting “constitutes a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law,” and stressed that the UAE “reserves its full right to respond to this escalation and take all necessary measures to protect its lands and people.”The ministry added: “The safety of citizens, residents and visitors is a top priority that cannot be compromised,” and urged the public to rely on official sources and avoid publishing unconfirmed information.The attacks on the UAE are part of broader regional tensions in the wake of US and Israeli strikes on Iran. New explosions were reported in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Manama on Sunday morning, raising fears of a wider conflict in the Gulf. AFP reporters heard explosions in the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain, with sirens sounding in several cities.The United Arab Emirates reported that fire and smoke from the missile strikes reached prominent landmarks including the Palm Island and Burj Al Arab. The authorities said that Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports witnessed “accidents,” while Kuwait Airport was also affected.The Ministry confirmed that all necessary measures have been taken to secure the affected sites and ensure the safety of residents, and that the country remains on high alert to confront any other threats.