ABU DHABI, Mar 5: The Ministry of Defense announced that UAE air defense systems detected seven ballistic missiles on March 5, 2026, intercepting and destroying six of them, while one missile landed within the country’s territory. The air defenses also detected 131 drones, successfully intercepting 125, while six drones fell inside the UAE.

Since the start of what authorities described as “blatant Iranian aggression,” a total of 196 ballistic missiles have been detected. Of these, 181 were destroyed, 13 fell into the sea, and two landed within the country. In addition, 1,072 Iranian drones have been detected, with 1,001 intercepted and 71 falling into the country. Eight cruise missiles were also detected and destroyed during the same period.

The attacks have resulted in three fatalities — Pakistani, Nepalese, and Bangladeshi nationals — and 94 minor injuries involving Emirati, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian, and Turkish nationals.

The Ministry of Defense affirmed that it remains on high alert and fully prepared to address any threats, vowing to firmly counter any attempts to undermine the nation’s security while safeguarding its sovereignty, stability, and national interests.