UAE says air defences intercepted two Iranian missiles and three drones, injuring three, continuing the attacks on UAE by Iran
The Ministry of Defence said two ballistic missiles and three UAVs were launched from Iran on Friday, amid renewed tensions around the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
The United Arab Emirates said its air defence systems intercepted two ballistic missiles and three unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran on Friday, in the latest reported attack to target the Gulf state during a period of heightened regional tension. Three people sustained moderate injuries, according to the UAE Ministry of Defence.
The ministry said the attack took place on May 8 and described the projectiles as part of continuing Iranian attacks against the UAE. It added that, since the start of the campaign, Emirati air defences have intercepted 551 ballistic missiles, 29 cruise missiles and 2,263 UAVs.
The latest announcement comes as the Gulf faces renewed instability despite diplomatic efforts to preserve a fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States. The Associated Press reported that the UAE’s latest missile and drone interceptions followed similar U.S. defensive actions against Iranian strikes targeting Navy ships near the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy corridors, has become a central flashpoint in the crisis. Recent disruption in the area has raised concerns over global shipping, oil flows and the safety of civilian vessels and crews operating in and around the Gulf.
Iran has denied responsibility for some recent attacks reported by the UAE. Earlier this week, Tehran said its forces had not carried out missile or drone operations against the UAE in recent days, after Emirati officials reported a second consecutive day of incoming missiles and drones.
Friday’s reported interception marks another test for the UAE’s air defence network, which has been repeatedly activated during the conflict. Emirati authorities have continued to frame the attacks as a threat to national sovereignty and civilian safety, while stressing that the country’s defence systems remain operational against missile and drone threats.
