Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, Mar 9: The UAE Ministry of Defence said on Monday that the country’s air defence systems detected 15 ballistic missiles overnight, of which 12 were intercepted while three fell into the sea.
In a statement issued amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia, the ministry also reported the detection of 18 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Of these, 17 were intercepted by air defence systems while one landed within the country’s territory.
According to official figures released by the ministry, since the beginning of the Iranian attacks, a total of 253 ballistic missiles have been detected. Of these, 233 were destroyed, 18 fell into the sea and two landed inside the country. Authorities also said 1,440 Iranian UAVs had been detected so far, with 1,359 intercepted and 81 falling within the UAE. In addition, eight cruise missiles were detected and destroyed.
The attacks have resulted in four fatalities involving foreign nationals from Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh, while 117 people suffered minor injuries. Those injured include citizens and residents from several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Philippines, Turkey, Jordan and Oman, among others.
The ministry reiterated that the UAE remains fully prepared to address any threats and will respond firmly to attempts aimed at undermining the country’s security, sovereignty and stability.
The current escalation began after joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28. Following the strikes, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting US assets, regional capitals and allied forces across West Asia.
Earlier, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the country places the security of its citizens, residents and visitors at the highest priority. In a message shared on X, he said the UAE is fully prepared to confront threats and praised the armed forces, security services and national institutions working to safeguard the nation.
He also expressed condolences for the victims and wished a speedy recovery for the injured, while emphasising that the UAE would remain united and steadfast in defending its sovereignty.