The Ministry of Defence of the United Arab Emirates said that the country’s air force and air defence forces have, since the outset of the Iranian attack, dealt with and destroyed 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones launched towards the state’s territory.
The ministry stated that since the beginning of the assault, 137 Iranian ballistic missiles were detected, of which 132 were destroyed, while five fell into the sea. It added that 209 Iranian drones were also detected; 195 were intercepted, while 14 fell within the country’s land and waters, causing some collateral damage.
It noted that, as a result of the effective response to the missiles and drones, fragments fell in various areas across the country, leading to minor material damage to a number of civilian properties.
The ministry confirmed that the competent authorities moved immediately, with full readiness and capability, to address the situation in accordance with approved procedures in such cases. Necessary measures were taken to ensure the safety of residents and to secure affected sites.
The ministry condemned the attack in the strongest terms, affirming the state’s categorical rejection of such acts, which it described as a serious escalation and a cowardly act threatening the security and safety of civilians and undermining stability.
It stressed that the targeting constituted a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law, and that the state reserves its full right to respond to this escalation and to take all necessary measures to protect its territory, its people and its residents, in a manner that safeguards its sovereignty, security and national interests.
The ministry stated that it remains on full alert to address any threats and that all necessary measures are in place to confront firmly any attempt to destabilise the country’s security and stability. It emphasised that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors is an absolute priority.
The ministry urged the public to obtain information from official state sources and to refrain from circulating rumours or unverified reports.
