The United Arab Emirates has reported that its air defence forces successfully intercepted most of the ballistic missiles and drones launched toward its territory amid ongoing regional hostilities linked to the widening conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Governments in the Gulf have condemned the strikes as a serious escalation that undermines regional peace and security.
In an official statement, the UAE Ministry of Defence said its air force and air defence systems tracked and neutralised the bulk of incoming threats. Since the start of the Iranian offensive, a total of 174 ballistic missiles were detected heading toward the Emirates, with 161 destroyed by defence systems and 13 falling into the sea, the ministry said. Likewise, out of 689 drones tracked, 645 were intercepted, while the remainder landed inside the country. In Monday’s operations alone, the ministry indicated that air defences knocked down nine ballistic missiles, six cruise missiles, and 148 drones.
“Debris from these interceptions fell in various locations, resulting in limited damage to some civilian facilities,” the ministry said, adding that relevant agencies were swiftly deployed to secure affected areas and safeguard public safety. Authorities have urged residents and visitors to follow official communications and refrain from spreading unverified reports as the situation continues to evolve.
The UAE government strongly denounced the attacks, calling them a violation of national sovereignty and international law. In its statement, the ministry emphasised that such actions represent “a serious escalation that endangers civilian lives and undermines regional security.” It also reaffirmed the nation’s right to take all necessary measures to protect its territory and people.
The strikes come amid a broader surge in tensions after a joint US–Israeli military campaign against Iran last weekend, which Tehran says prompted its retaliatory attacks across the Gulf. Gulf states including the UAE have condemned Iran’s actions, framing the targeting of civilian infrastructure and territory as reckless and destabilising.
As the conflict continues to unfold, authorities in the UAE say they remain on high alert with defence systems operating at full readiness to confront any additional threats.
