The United Arab Emirates has successfully intercepted a large-scale aerial attack launched by Iran, neutralising ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and hundreds of drones, according to the UAE Ministry of Defence.
In an official statement issued on Monday, the ministry said air defence systems intercepted and destroyed nine ballistic missiles, six cruise missiles and 148 drones during the latest wave of attacks. Since the start of the assault, a total of 174 ballistic missiles were detected heading toward the country, of which 161 were intercepted, while 13 fell into the sea.
Authorities also tracked 689 drones, successfully intercepting 645, with the remaining 44 falling within UAE territory. Additionally, eight cruise missiles were detected and destroyed, with some causing limited collateral damage.
The attacks resulted in three fatalities and 68 minor injuries, with minor to moderate material damage reported at a number of civilian sites. The ministry clarified that loud sounds heard across different parts of the country were due to missile interceptions by air defence systems and fighter aircraft engaging drones and cruise missiles.
The UAE strongly condemned the attacks, calling them a blatant act of aggression and a serious violation of sovereignty and international law. It reaffirmed that the country reserves the full right to respond to the escalation and take all necessary measures to protect its citizens, residents and national interests.
The ministry confirmed it remains on high alert and urged the public to rely only on official sources for updates, warning against the spread of rumours and unverified information.
