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UAE Thwarts Major Iranian Missile & Drone Barrage, Reports Casualties

The UAE Ministry of Defence announced its air defence systems successfully intercepted a barrage of 7 ballistic missiles and 16 UAVs launched from Iran. This latest engagement is part of a staggering cumulative total, with UAE defences having engaged hundreds of missiles and nearly 1,800 drones since the conflict's onset. The attacks have resulted in the deaths of 2 armed forces members and 6 civilians, with 161 others injured. The conflict, which escalated after strikes targeting Iran's former Supreme Leader, has led to severe regional disruption, including the virtual closure of the critical Strait of Hormuz.

Key Points: UAE Intercepts Iranian Missiles & Drones, Reports Casualties

  • Major missile & drone barrage intercepted
  • Cumulative toll: 352 missiles, 1789 UAVs engaged
  • 8 dead, 161 injured in attacks
  • UAE reaffirms readiness to defend sovereignty
  • Regional conflict disrupts Strait of Hormuz
2 min read

UAE air defences engage 7 ballistic missiles, 16 UAVs launched from Iran: Ministry of Defence

UAE air defences engaged 7 ballistic missiles & 16 UAVs from Iran. Ministry reports 8 dead, 161 injured in ongoing attacks since conflict began.

"Since the onset of the blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 352 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1789 UAVs. - UAE Ministry of Defence"

Abu Dhabi, March 24

The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence said its air defence systems successfully intercepted a significant barrage of projectiles launched from Iran on Monday, amid escalating regional tensions.

In a post on the social media platform X, the Ministry confirmed the scale of the latest engagement. "The UAE air defence systems engaged 7 ballistic missiles and 16 UAVs launched from Iran," the official statement read.

This latest interception adds to the staggering volume of fire directed at the country since the beginning of hostilities. The Ministry detailed the cumulative impact of the conflict, stating, "Since the onset of the blatant Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have engaged 352 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1789 UAVs."

The ongoing military operations have resulted in a rising human toll, with the Ministry reporting casualties among both service members and the public. "These attacks resulted in the martyrdom of 2 members of the armed forces while performing their national duty, the deaths of 6 civilians, and injuries to 161 people ranging from minor to severe," the statement noted.

Despite the persistent threat, the United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining national stability and repelling further incursions. The Ministry of Defence affirmed that it "remains fully prepared and ready to deal with any threats, and will firmly confront any attempts to undermine State security in a manner that ensures the protection of its sovereignty, security and stability, and safeguards its national interests and capabilities."

These defensive measures follow the escalating conflict that began on February 28 with the killing of 86-year-old Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint military strikes by the US and Israel.

In the wake of those strikes, Iran, in retaliation, targeted Israel and US assets in several Gulf countries. This has caused significant disruption in the waterways, affecting international energy markets and global economic stability.

The regional situation remains critical as, due to the conflict in the region, Iran has virtually closed the Strait of Hormuz.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The human cost is heartbreaking. 2 soldiers and 6 civilians dead, 161 injured. These are not just statistics, they are families shattered. My thoughts are with all those affected. The region desperately needs de-escalation and dialogue, not more missiles.
V
Vikram M
While the UAE's defensive capabilities are impressive, we must ask why they are in the crossfire. The article mentions the conflict started with US-Israel strikes in Iran. Gulf nations often bear the brunt of these proxy conflicts. India has strong ties with both the UAE and Iran; our diplomacy is crucial now.
P
Priya S
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is the biggest concern for India. A huge portion of our oil imports pass through there. The government needs to have contingency plans ready. Jai Hind.
R
Rohit P
Respect to the UAE armed forces for protecting their sovereignty. But this shows how unstable the Middle East is. We have millions of Indian expats working in the Gulf. Their safety is paramount. Hope MEA is monitoring the situation closely.
M
Michael C
The technological aspect is mind-blowing. Intercepting that many ballistic missiles and drones simultaneously is a massive feat. It also shows the sheer scale of the attack. A sobering read about modern warfare.
K
Kavya N

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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