UAE says air defences intercepted hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones

March 5, Kathmandu: The United Arab Emirates said its air defence systems intercepted hundreds of missiles and drones launched by Iran during the latest escalation in the Middle East, while reaffirming its right to self-defence and calling for diplomatic de-escalation.

During a government press briefing on March 4, UAE officials said 186 ballistic missiles had been launched toward the country since the start of the Iranian attacks this year. Of these, 172 were intercepted by air defence systems, 13 fell into the sea, and one landed on UAE territory.

Authorities also reported detecting 812 Iranian drones, including Shahed-series unmanned aerial vehicles. A total of 755 drones were intercepted, while 57 fell within the country. Eight cruise missiles were also detected and destroyed.

Officials said the incidents resulted in three deaths and 68 minor injuries, with limited damage to civilian property. Most injuries were caused by debris from interception operations rather than direct strikes.

The UAE said its armed forces have increased combat readiness, strengthened surveillance and early-warning systems and reinforced defensive deployments to protect national airspace and infrastructure.

Diplomatically, the UAE announced it had closed its embassy in Tehran, withdrawn its ambassador and summoned Iran’s envoy to lodge a protest over the attacks.

Officials also stressed that the country’s economy, aviation and tourism sectors remain stable despite the crisis. Limited flights have resumed to repatriate travellers, with more than 17,000 passengers transported on 160 flights since March 1.

The UAE reiterated calls for dialogue to prevent further regional escalation while maintaining that it would respond to any threats against its sovereignty.