UAE defences thwart fresh wave of missiles and drones from Iran

Multiple interceptions reported across national airspace

UAE Iran
Caption: File photo of debris of an Iranian missile intercepted by UAE air defences


ABU DHABI – UAE air defences on Tuesday intercepted five ballistic missiles and 17 unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran, according to official statements.

The latest interceptions come amid a series of ongoing attacks, with authorities confirming sustained defensive operations to protect national airspace and infrastructure.

The incident adds to a growing tally of intercepted threats since the escalation began. Since the start of the Iranian attacks, UAE air defences have intercepted 357 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,806 UAVs. The figures reflect the scale and frequency of the aerial threats handled by the country’s defence systems in recent weeks.

Casualties reported

The attacks have resulted in the martyrdom of two members of the armed forces while performing their national duty. Authorities also confirmed six fatalities involving individuals of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi and Palestinian nationalities.

A total of 161 people have been injured, with cases ranging from minor to moderate and severe. The injured include nationals from a wide range of countries, including the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden and Tunisia.

Defence response

The Ministry of Defence affirmed that it remains fully prepared to respond to any threats. It reiterated its commitment to confronting actions that aim to undermine national security, while ensuring the protection of sovereignty, stability and strategic interests.