Abu Dhabi, March 18 (ANI) — The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence said on March 18 that its military is carrying out defensive operations after another wave of aerial attacks. The ministry said UAE air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats it says originated from Iran.
A tweet from the ministry in Arabic said the sounds heard across parts of the country were caused by interceptions by ballistic missile air-defence systems and by fighter aircraft engaging drones and cruise missiles. The incident came about four hours after a similar event, representing a further escalation as the UAE confirmed another alleged attack from Iran on the same day.
The ministry previously said that on March 17 air-defence systems intercepted 10 ballistic missiles and 45 drones launched from Iran, according to Gulf News. Officials described these measures as part of an ongoing military response to continued attacks targeting UAE territory.
Since the start of hostilities, UAE forces say they have neutralised 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,672 drones. Gulf News reported that two members of the UAE Armed Forces were killed while carrying out their duties. Civilian fatalities numbered six, among Pakistani, Nepalese, Bangladeshi and Palestinian nationals, and 157 people have been injured, with cases ranging from minor to severe among both UAE citizens and expatriates.
The Ministry of Defence said it remains on high alert and is prepared to respond to further provocations, reiterating its commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty, security, stability and national assets. (ANI) The Tribune published this syndicated feed as received and assumes no responsibility for its accuracy or completeness.
