The UAE downed 132 ballistic missiles and 195 drones as Iran’s attacks sparked regional concerns

The United Arab Emirates has confirmed that its air defense systems successfully intercepted most of the ballistic missiles and drones launched at its territory during a massive attack by Iran, and warned that the development marked a dangerous escalation in regional tensions.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the UAE Ministry of Defense revealed that since the start of the strikes, air force and air defense units have tracked 137 ballistic missiles. Of these, 132 disintegrated in the air, while five landed at sea without causing any damage on land.

The ministry further revealed that 209 drones were detected during the operation, and 195 were successfully intercepted. Fourteen drones landed in the country and surrounding waters, causing minor material damage.

“Debris from the intercepted missiles and drones fell at various locations, causing limited damage to some civilian facilities,” the ministry said.

It added that emergency and security agencies quickly activated established response protocols to secure the affected areas and ensure public safety.

The Emirati government strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a violation of sovereignty and a violation of international law. Officials stressed that the scale of the attacks represents a major escalation capable of endangering civilian lives and further destabilizing the region.

The ministry reiterated that the country has the right to act decisively in defense of its territory and population, and stressed that security forces remain on maximum alert.

Minister of State for International Cooperation, Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, said the country’s defense apparatus is fully prepared to address any emerging threats.

“The authorities remain alert and fully prepared to deal with any threat. We are committed to taking all necessary measures to safeguard our country and ensure the protection of all people living in and visiting the United Arab Emirates,” the UAE Ministry of Defense said.

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Authorities also warned citizens against spreading unverified reports, and urged the public to rely only on official channels for the latest information. They reiterated that protecting citizens, residents and visitors remains the government’s top priority.

The incident comes amid escalating hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran, a conflict that has deepened instability in the Middle East.

US-Israeli airstrikes launched on Saturday reportedly resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, along with other senior officials, further inflaming tensions.

Tehran has vowed to retaliate against the attacks, stepping up missile and drone operations against countries hosting American military facilities. Iranian authorities viewed the attack as retaliation for a coordinated US-Israeli campaign on its territory.

In a related development, Iran targeted the United States Embassy in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, triggering a fire in the diplomatic area.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that two drones attacked the embassy compound early Tuesday, causing “minor material damage” and a “minor fire.”

Witnesses reported plumes of black smoke rising above Riyadh’s diplomatic district, where several foreign missions are located. A loud explosion was heard, and flames were visible at the scene, although authorities said the fire was limited.

The embassy building was said to be empty at the time of the attack, and no casualties were recorded. Air defense systems reportedly intercepted four additional drones aimed at the diplomatic zone during the attack.