The United Arab Emirates announced that its air defense systems intercepted 132 ballistic missiles and 195 drones during a large-scale Iranian assault. The attack marked one of the most significant aerial bombardments against the Gulf nation in recent years. Iranian forces launched the projectiles in response to U.S. military strikes on Iranian targets.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs for the UAE, condemned the attack and described it as a serious escalation in regional hostilities. He emphasized that the UAE would defend its sovereignty against any aggression.
“This is a serious escalation and a blatant violation of international law,” Sheikh Abdullah said. “The UAE reserves the right to respond to these attacks and will take all necessary measures to protect its people and territory.”
He added: “Our air defense forces successfully intercepted all incoming threats, and no casualties were reported on our soil.”
The UAE Armed Forces activated its advanced missile defense systems to counter the incoming barrage. The operation involved Patriot missile batteries and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) systems deployed at strategic locations across the country. Military officials confirmed that the defense network functioned as designed and neutralized all threats before they reached their targets.
The attack occurred amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States. President Donald Trump announced that American forces had conducted joint strikes with Israel against Iranian military installations, missile sites and naval assets. Iran responded by targeting U.S. military bases across the Middle East, including facilities in Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan in addition to the UAE.
The UAE government called for de-escalation and urged all parties to exercise restraint. Officials stressed the importance of diplomatic solutions to prevent further violence in the region.
Sheikh Abdullah stated: “We call on the international community to condemn these attacks and support efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.”
Following the assault, the UAE heightened security at critical infrastructure sites and military installations. Authorities also temporarily closed airspace over certain areas as a precautionary measure. The government assured residents that all necessary steps were being taken to ensure public safety.
