The United Arab Emirates has reported that its air defence systems intercepted the majority of ballistic missiles and drones launched toward its territory amid escalating hostilities with Iran, calling the assault a serious escalation that threatens regional stability.
In a statement on Tuesday, the UAE Ministry of Defence said that since the start of the Iranian attacks, the country’s air force and air defence units detected 137 ballistic missiles, destroying 132, while five fell into the sea. Authorities also detected 209 drones, intercepting 195 of them. Fourteen drones landed within UAE territory and waters, causing only minor material damage.
Debris from intercepted missiles and drones fell in various locations, resulting in limited damage to some civilian facilities, the Ministry said, adding that relevant authorities responded immediately to secure affected areas and ensure residents’ safety.
The government strongly condemned the attacks as violations of national sovereignty and international law, describing them as a major escalation that endangers civilian lives and undermines regional security.
The Ministry emphasized that the UAE reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its territory, citizens, and residents, noting that the country remains on high alert. Minister of State for International Cooperation H.E. Reem Al Hashimy stressed that authorities are fully prepared to confront emerging threats:
The authorities remain on high alert and are fully prepared to address any threats. We are committed to taking all necessary measures to safeguard our country and ensure the protection of all who live in and visit the United Arab Emirates.
The Ministry urged the public to rely only on official information and avoid spreading unverified reports, reiterating that the safety of nationals, residents, and visitors is the government’s top priority.
The attacks come amid heightened regional tensions following a US-Israeli air campaign on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other senior officials. In retaliation, Iran has launched drone and missile strikes targeting countries hosting American military assets.
Earlier reports by Punch Online confirmed that Iran targeted the United States Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, causing a small fire and minor material damage. Saudi authorities said four drones were intercepted during the assault. No casualties were reported, and the embassy building was empty at the time. Plumes of black smoke were seen over Riyadh’s diplomatic district, though the fire was described as limited in scale.
