UAE intercepts fresh wave of Iranian missiles and drones amid escalating conflict

Crime Diary, International, Middle East

LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 13, 2026 — The United Arab Emirates’ air defence systems intercepted seven ballistic missiles and 27 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched from Iran, the UAE Ministry of Defence announced Friday.

The latest strikes bring the total number of attacks on the UAE since the outbreak of war on February 28 to 285 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,567 UAVs.

According to the ministry, the attacks resulted in six fatalities among Emirati, Pakistani, Nepali, and Bangladeshi nationals, and 141 injuries ranging from minor to moderate. Those injured include citizens of the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden, Kenya, Tanzania, Somalia, Morocco, Algeria, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.

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“The Ministry of Defence remains fully prepared to deal with any threats and will firmly confront attempts to undermine state security, ensuring the protection of sovereignty, stability, and national interests,” the statement said.

The conflict, which erupted between the United States, Israel, and Iran, has seen Iran target Gulf energy infrastructure, contributing to volatility in global oil markets. While Tehran insists its strikes are aimed at U.S. bases and assets, several civilian facilities — including homes and airports — have been hit, raising questions about Iran’s objectives in the region.