UAE Intercepts 10 Ballistic Missiles, 45 Drones Amid Ongoing Iranian Attacks

ABU DHABI, March 17: The United Arab Emirates’ air defense systems successfully intercepted 10 ballistic missiles and 45 drones launched from Iran on Tuesday, as part of the continuing wave of attacks targeting the country.

Since the onset of the hostilities, UAE air defenses have neutralized a total of 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,672 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), highlighting the high alert status and operational readiness of the nation’s armed forces.

The attacks have resulted in significant human casualties. Two members of the UAE armed forces were martyred while performing their national duties. Six civilians from Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Palestine lost their lives. In addition, 157 people from more than 30 nationalities—including Emirati, Egyptian, Sudanese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian, Turkish, Iraqi, Nigerian, Omani, Jordanian, Palestinian, Ghanaian, Indonesian, Swedish, and Tunisian—sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe.

The Ministry of Defense emphasized that all forces remain on high alert and fully prepared to confront any threat to the country. Authorities reiterated their commitment to protecting the UAE’s sovereignty, security, and stability, ensuring the safety of civilians, and preserving national interests and capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions.

Officials also called for continued vigilance and adherence to civil defense instructions, stressing the critical role of public cooperation in maintaining security during these hostile incidents.