UAE says it faced over 1,000 attacks from Iran and reserves right to defend itself: foreign ministry
TL;DR
The UAE reports over 1,000 Iranian missile and drone attacks, intercepting many with advanced air defenses. It condemns Iran's actions as destabilizing, reserves the right to self-defense, and engages in diplomatic efforts while maintaining economic stability.
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UAE says it faced over 1,000 attacks from Iran and reserves right to defend itself: foreign ministry
UAE Condemns Iranian Attacks, Highlights Defensive Capabilities and Sovereignty
The United Arab Emirates has reported facing over 1,000 Iranian missile and drone attacks since the escalation of regional tensions, with the UAE Ministry of Defence stating that 172 ballistic missiles, 755 drones, and eight cruise missiles have been intercepted. The UAE, alongside Gulf allies and the United States, has condemned Iran's strikes as "reckless and destabilizing", emphasizing that civilian infrastructure and non-belligerent nations have been targeted. The UAE's advanced multi-layered air defense systems, including long-, medium-, and short-range capabilities, have mitigated potential damage, with the ministry asserting that these systems ensure sustained operational readiness.
Diplomatic measures have also been taken, including the closure of the UAE's embassy in Tehran and the recall of its diplomatic mission. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan has engaged in extensive coordination with regional and international counterparts to address the crisis, while officials stress the UAE's commitment to self-defense under international law. Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, a senior UAE official, warned that Gulf states' "passive defence has limits", signaling potential shifts in strategy if aggression persists.
Economically, the UAE has prioritized maintaining stability, with partial reopenings of airports and ports despite ongoing threats. While the conflict has raised short-term concerns about regional security, officials argue that the UAE's institutional resilience—demonstrated during the pandemic—will reinforce investor confidence. The government has also dismissed inaccurate media reports downplaying its defensive capabilities, underscoring the importance of verified information for stakeholders.
As Gulf nations weigh their responses, the UAE has reaffirmed its stance against unprovoked attacks while advocating for political solutions. The financial community will closely monitor how regional tensions impact trade, energy markets, and long-term investment in the Gulf.
