UAE says air defences 'actively engaging' with missiles; urges public to remain calm
Abu Dhabi, April 6
The Defence Ministry of the United Arab Emirates said that the country's air defence systems are "actively engaging" with missiles and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.
In a statement, the ministry urged the public to remain calm and abide by the security instructions.
"UAE Air Defences system are actively engaging with missiles and UAV threats. MOD asserts that the sounds heard across the country are the result of ongoing engagement operations of missiles and UAV's. The public is urged to remain calm and follow the safety and security instructions issued by the relevant authorities. Do not approach, touch, or photograph any debris on fragments that have fallen as a result of successful air interceptions and allow relevant authorities to assess the situation, the ministry said in a statement.
Additionally, Kuwait's Army also said that the country's air defence systems responded to hostile missile and drone threats.
"Kuwaiti Air Defences are currently responding to hostile missile and drone threats. The General Staff of the Kuwaiti Armed Forces confirms that any explosions that may be heard are the result of air defence systems intercepting hostile targets. The public is urged to adhere to safety and security instructions issued by the relevant authorities," the Army said in a statement.
Earlier, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei responded to US President Donald Trump's threats, warning that Iran will respond "in kind" to any attack on its infrastructure, Al Jazeera reported.
"Our armed forces have made it clear that in case Iran's infrastructure is attacked, we would react in kind," Esmail Baghaei said.
"Our armed forces would target any similar infrastructure that is owned or in any way or manner related to the United States or contributes to their act of aggression against Iran," he added.
This came in response to US President's threats of military action against Iran if Tehran fails to reach an agreement with Washington to end the conflict and open the strategic Strait of Hormuz
During an interview with Axios, Trump said, "There is a good chance, but if they don't make a deal, I am blowing up everything over there," adding that discussions are ongoing and suggested a deal could still be reached before the deadline.
This comes amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with diplomatic efforts continuing alongside increasingly sharp rhetoric from both sides.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The situation in the Gulf affects global oil prices and our economy directly. Hope diplomacy prevails soon. The public instructions from UAE authorities seem very clear and sensible.
While the immediate threat is serious, one has to question the long-term stability of the region when external powers keep escalating tensions. India has maintained a balanced position, and that is the right approach for our national interest.
My cousin works in Dubai. The family is very worried. She said people are staying indoors. It's a reminder of how fragile peace can be. Hope the air defences are effective.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint. Any conflict there will disrupt oil supplies and shipping lanes, impacting India massively. Our foreign policy needs to actively engage with all parties to de-escalate.
Respectfully, the article focuses on the defensive statements but the root cause is the escalating US-Iran rhetoric. A more permanent solution is needed, not just air defence interceptions. The cycle of threat and counter-threat helps no one.
The instructions to not touch debris are crucial. People's curiosity can be dangerous. Hope our community leaders in the Gulf are spreading this message in Indian languages as well. Stay safe, everyone!