UAE says air defences intercept missiles and drones, reports injuries and fatalities

Abu Dhabi, March 2, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The United Arab Emirates intercepted nine ballistic missiles, six cruise missiles and 148 drones on Monday, the defence ministry said, reporting 10 minor injuries.

Since the start of Iranian attacks, 174 ballistic missiles were detected, with 161 destroyed and 13 falling into the sea. A total of 689 drones were detected, with 645 intercepted and 44 landing inside the country. Eight cruise missiles were detected and destroyed.

The ministry reported three fatalities, Pakistani, Nepalese and Bangladeshi nationals, and 68 minor injuries among Emirati, Egyptian, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese and Afghan nationals.

It attributed sounds heard in parts of the country to air defence interceptions and fighter jets intercepting drones and cruise missiles, and reported minor to moderate damage to civilian properties from falling debris.

The ministry condemned the targeting as a violation of sovereignty and international law, affirmed the right to respond, and said forces remain on high alert. It urged the public to rely on official sources and avoid circulating rumours or unverified information.