By Peter Omopo
The United Arab Emirates has announced that its air defence systems intercepted the majority of ballistic missiles and drones launched toward its territory during ongoing hostilities with Iran, describing the attack as a serious escalation threatening regional stability.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the UAE Ministry of Defence said that since the start of the assault, 137 ballistic missiles were detected, with 132 successfully destroyed while five fell into the sea. The Ministry also disclosed that 209 drones were identified, of which 195 were intercepted.
According to the statement, 14 drones landed within the country’s territory and waters, causing minor material damage. Debris from intercepted missiles and drones reportedly fell in various locations, resulting in limited damage to some civilian facilities. Authorities said emergency response teams acted swiftly to secure affected areas and ensure public safety.
The UAE government condemned the attack, describing it as a violation of national sovereignty and international law. It said the action endangered civilian lives and undermined regional security.
The Ministry affirmed that the country reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its territory, citizens and residents, adding that it remains on high alert.
Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy, said authorities were fully prepared to address emerging threats and reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding all residents and visitors.
The government also urged the public to rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading unverified reports, stressing that public safety remains its top priority.
The escalation comes amid a widening conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran. Recent US and Israeli air strikes on Iran reportedly resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, and other senior figures, further intensifying tensions.
Iran has since launched missile and drone attacks on targets in countries hosting American military assets, describing the operations as retaliation.
In a related development, reports indicated that Iran struck the United States Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, causing a small fire within the diplomatic quarter. Saudi authorities said two drones hit the embassy compound, resulting in minor material damage, while air defence systems intercepted four additional drones targeting the area. No casualties were recorded, and the embassy building was reportedly empty at the time of the attack.
