UAE Intercepts 15 Missiles, 11 Drones as Attack Toll Rises

ABU DHABI, March 26: The UAE Ministry of Defence said on Thursday that its air defence systems successfully intercepted 15 ballistic missiles and 11 drones launched from Iran.

Since the start of what authorities described as ongoing Iranian attacks, UAE air defences have engaged a total of 372 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,826 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The ministry said the attacks have resulted in the deaths of two members of the armed forces while on duty, as well as a Moroccan civilian contractor working with the military. Eight other civilians of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian and Indian nationalities were also killed.

A total of 169 people have been injured so far, with wounds ranging from minor to severe. Those injured include nationals from multiple countries across Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

The Ministry of Defence reaffirmed its full readiness to respond to any threats, stressing that it will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard the country’s sovereignty, security and stability.