The United Arab Emirates said its air defence units intercepted most of the ballistic missiles and drones fired at its territory as tensions with Iran deepened, calling the development a dangerous escalation with implications for regional peace.
In a statement on Tuesday, the 3rd of March, 2026, the UAE Ministry of Defence disclosed that 137 ballistic missiles were tracked following the start of the Iranian offensive. Of that number, 132 were destroyed mid-air, while five landed in the sea.
The Ministry also reported that 209 drones were identified. Air defence systems intercepted 195, while 14 landed within the country’s land and waters, leading to minor property damage.
“Debris from the intercepted missiles and drones fell in various locations, resulting in limited damage to some civilian facilities,” the Ministry stated.
It added that emergency teams acted swiftly under laid-down procedures to secure impacted areas and protect residents.
Authorities denounced the attack, describing it as a breach of sovereignty and international law, and warned that such actions threaten civilian safety and regional security.
The Ministry said the country would take necessary steps to defend its territory, residents and national interests, maintaining that it remains on alert.
Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem Al Hashimy, said security agencies were ready to confront any evolving threats.
“The authorities remain on high alert and are fully prepared to address any threats. We are committed to taking all necessary measures to safeguard our country and ensure the protection of all who live in and visit the United Arab Emirates,” the UAE Ministry of Defence said.
Residents were urged to depend on official updates and avoid circulating unverified information, as the government reaffirmed that the safety of citizens and visitors remains its top concern.
The broader confrontation involving the United States, Israel and Iran has heightened instability across the region.
The joint US-Israeli air operations launched on Saturday reportedly resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, alongside other senior officials, further escalating hostilities.
Iran has since stepped up attacks on US allies and pledged retaliation over the strike on its territory and the killing of Khamenei.
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Tehran has carried out missile and drone strikes targeting countries hosting American military facilities, describing the actions as a response to the coordinated assaults.
In a related development, Iran reportedly targeted the United States Embassy in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, sparking a fire in the diplomatic quarter.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that two drones struck the embassy complex early Tuesday, causing “minor material damage” and “a small fire.”
Witnesses observed thick smoke over Riyadh’s diplomatic area, which houses several foreign missions. An explosion was heard and flames were seen, though officials said the blaze was limited.
The embassy was said to be unoccupied at the time, and no casualties were recorded.
Air defence systems reportedly intercepted four additional drones aimed at the diplomatic district during the attack.