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UAE Intercepts Iranian Missiles, Debris Hits Dubai Tower Amid Regional War

UAE air defence systems successfully intercepted the majority of Iranian ballistic missiles and drones, with falling debris causing minor damage to a tower in Dubai Marina. UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan addressed the nation, declaring the country is in a "period of war." Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an apology to neighbouring countries for the attacks but vowed Iran would not initiate further strikes unless provoked. The incident follows major US-Israel airstrikes in late February that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Key Points: UAE Intercepts Iranian Missiles, Debris Hits Dubai Marina

  • UAE intercepts 15 of 16 Iranian ballistic missiles
  • Debris from interception hits Dubai Marina tower
  • Iranian President apologizes to neighbours
  • US-Israel strikes killed Iran's Supreme Leader
3 min read

UAE air defences intercept Iranian missiles, debris hits tower in Dubai Marina

UAE air defences intercept 15 Iranian ballistic missiles; debris damages Dubai Marina tower. President declares "period of war." Iran issues apology.

"We will emerge stronger. - Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan"

Abu Dhabi, March 9

Debris from an intercepted Iranian projectile struck a tower in Dubai Marina on sending smoke rising from the building's facade and triggering brief concern in the area.

Authorities later confirmed that the situation had been quickly brought under control and no injuries were reported.

Dubai's government confirmed the incident shortly afterwards in a post on X, explaining that the damage occurred due to debris falling after air defence systems intercepted the incoming threat.

"Authorities confirm that debris resulting from a successful interception caused a minor incident on the facade of a tower in Dubai Marina. The situation has been contained. No injuries were reported," the Dubai government's official media handle wrote on X.

Earlier, the United Arab Emirates' Defence Ministry had announced that its air defence systems were actively responding to incoming missile and drone threats originating from Iran.

"Air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran," the ministry said in a post on X.

"Sounds heard are the result of the Air Defence Systems intercepting missiles and drones," the statement added.

According to the ministry, a total of 16 ballistic missiles were detected during the incident. Of these, 15 were successfully intercepted by air defence systems, while the remaining missiles fell into the sea. Additionally, authorities tracked 121 drones approaching the country, of which 119 were destroyed before they reached their targets.

Amid the heightened tensions, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan addressed the nation on Abu Dhabi TV. It marked his first public statement since the conflict escalated.

The country "is in a period of war," he said, adding, "We will emerge stronger."

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an apology to neighbouring countries for attacks carried out during the ongoing war involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. However, he maintained that Iran would not initiate further strikes unless provoked.

"I must apologise on my own behalf and on behalf of Iran to the neighbouring countries that were attacked by Iran. The interim leadership council agreed yesterday that no more attacks will be made on neighbouring countries and no missiles will be fired unless an attack on Iran originates from those countries," Pezeshkian said during an address broadcast by Iranian state TV.

Responding to former US President Donald Trump's demand for unconditional surrender, Pezeshkian said Iran's enemies "must take their wish for the unconditional surrender of the Iranian people to their graves."

The latest developments follow coordinated airstrikes carried out by the US and Israel across Iran on February 28 after stalled nuclear negotiations and accusations that Tehran had resumed nuclear activities.

The strikes, known as "Operation Epic Fury," targeted several Iranian cities, including the capital Tehran. The attack killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with members of his family, further escalating tensions across the region.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
This is so scary. My cousin works in Dubai Marina. She heard the sounds and saw the smoke. It's a miracle no one was hurt. The Gulf is like a second home for millions of Indians. We pray for peace and stability in the region. The last thing anyone needs is a wider war.
A
Aditya G
While the UAE's defence was commendable, the root cause is the unchecked escalation between Iran and the US/Israel. "Operation Epic Fury" that killed Khamenei was a massive provocation. Iran's apology to neighbours is a small positive step, but the cycle of retaliation needs to stop. Global powers should focus on diplomacy, not regime change.
S
Sarah B
The economic implications are huge. Dubai is a global hub. Any sustained instability will hit oil prices, shipping lanes, and investments. India's economy is deeply connected. Our government's balanced foreign policy is being tested right now.
K
Karthik V
121 drones and 16 ballistic missiles... that's a massive attack. Shows how advanced and cheap drone warfare has become. Our defence forces should take note. The nature of war is changing rapidly.
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Meera T
The Iranian president's apology is noteworthy, but words are not enough. Innocent people in Dubai, many of them Indian professionals, were put at risk. Regional stability is paramount. Hope our External Affairs Ministry is in touch with all parties to de-escalate. Jai Hind.

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