UAE intercepts 15 missiles in new wave of Iranian attacks
Nationwide alerts issued as residents advised to remain indoors during incident
ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed a renewed wave of Iranian missile activity, with air defence systems intercepting multiple aerial threats as part of an ongoing escalation.
Authorities reported that 12 ballistic missiles, three cruise missiles and four unmanned aerial vehicles were engaged on May 4, preventing further damage across key areas.
The latest developments come amid heightened regional tensions, with emergency alerts issued and precautionary measures implemented nationwide. Officials stated that the country’s defence systems remain fully operational as they respond to sustained aerial threats.
Latest attacks
According to the Ministry of Defence, the latest wave of attacks resulted in three moderate injuries. The interception operations were carried out as missiles and drones approached UAE airspace from Iran, with defence systems neutralising targets before impact.
الدفاعات الجوية الإماراتية تتعامل مع الصواريخ الباليستية والجوالة والمسيرات الإيرانية.
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) May 4, 2026
UAE Air Defences engaged Iranian
Ballistic and Cruise Missiles and UAVs Attacks#وزارة_الدفاع #وزارة_الدفاع_الإماراتية#MOD#UAEMinistryOfDefence pic.twitter.com/KDP5VFl5Yl
Authorities confirmed that these incidents form part of a broader pattern of repeated aerial assaults in recent weeks, prompting continued vigilance across security agencies.
Cumulative toll
Since the onset of the attacks, UAE air defence systems have engaged a total of 549 ballistic missiles, 29 cruise missiles and 2,260 UAVs. The cumulative impact has led to 227 injuries involving multiple nationalities, including Emirati, Indian, Pakistani, Filipino and Egyptian nationals among others.
Officials also confirmed that the total number of martyrs has reached three, including a Moroccan civilian contracted with the armed forces. Civilian fatalities now stand at 10, with victims from several countries including Pakistan, India, Nepal and Egypt.
Defence readiness
The Ministry of Defence reaffirmed that the UAE remains fully prepared to confront any threats targeting its territory. Officials stated that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard national security, protect sovereignty and ensure stability across the country.
Authorities emphasised that defence systems continue to operate at full capacity, responding swiftly to any developments linked to the ongoing escalation.
Fujairah incident
In Fujairah, civil authorities confirmed that a fire broke out at the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone (FOIZ) following a reported drone strike originating from Iran. Three Indian nationals sustained moderate injuries in the incident and were taken to hospital for treatment. Emergency response teams were deployed immediately to contain the blaze and secure the affected industrial site. Officials said the incident contributed to a wider tally of injuries recorded during recent escalations, with investigations continuing into the extent of damage and operational disruption.
Foreign ministry condemns attacks
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned the renewed attacks, describing them as unprovoked and a direct threat to civilian infrastructure and national security. The UAE reiterated that such actions constitute a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter, holding Iran fully responsible for the escalation.
UAE Strongly Condemns Renewed Unprovoked Iranian Aggression Using Missiles and Drones pic.twitter.com/i1oYvCbdJc
— MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) May 4, 2026
Authorities reaffirmed the country’s right to respond under international legal frameworks while prioritising the protection of civilians and critical infrastructure. The public was again urged to rely solely on official updates and avoid spreading unverified information as tensions remain elevated across the region.