UAE Intercepts 165 Ballistic Missiles, 541 Drones in Major Regional Escalation
The United Arab Emirates has confirmed the interception of 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and 541 drones since the start of a major wave of attacks linked to escalating regional tensions.
In a statement released on Sunday, the UAE Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems successfully neutralised the vast majority of incoming threats launched by Iran, describing the operation as one of the largest defensive engagements in the country’s history.
According to official figures, 152 of the 165 ballistic missiles were intercepted mid-air, while 13 fell into the sea without causing damage.
The ministry added that both cruise missiles were destroyed before reaching their intended targets.
Out of the 541 drones detected, 506 were intercepted, while 35 managed to enter UAE territory, resulting in limited structural damage in parts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Authorities confirmed that three foreign nationals citizens of Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh were killed during the attacks.
At least 58 others sustained injuries, most of them described as minor and resulting from falling debris.
The attacks come amid heightened tensions following joint military actions by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets earlier this week, a development that has significantly raised fears of a wider regional conflict.
The UAE government said its armed forces remain on high alert and reiterated that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors remains its top priority.
Emergency response teams have been deployed across affected areas, while residents have been urged to rely solely on official sources for updates and to avoid spreading unverified information.
Officials stressed that the country’s layered air defence systems proved effective in mitigating the scale of potential destruction, preventing what could have been far greater casualties and infrastructure damage.
Regional observers warn that the latest developments mark a dangerous escalation, with Gulf states increasingly drawn into the broader confrontation.
Diplomatic efforts are reportedly ongoing to prevent further deterioration of security across the region.
