Emirati air defenses intercepted 13 ballistic missiles and 27 drones launched from Iran on March 18, 2026.
Since the start of the Iranian attacks, Emirati air defenses have engaged with a total of 327 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,699 drones.
These attacks have resulted in the deaths of two members of the Emirati armed forces whereas on duty, as well as six civilian fatalities – Pakistani, Nepalese, Bangladeshi, and Palestinian nationals. A total of 158 individuals have been injured, with injuries ranging from minor to severe. Those injured represent citizens of the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Turkey, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden, and Tunisia.
The Ministry of Defense affirmed its full readiness and capability to address any threats and to firmly counter any actions that undermine the security of the state, ensuring the preservation of its sovereignty, security, stability, and national interests.
تابعوا آخر أخبارنا المحلية والرياضية وآخر المستجدات السياسية والإقتصادية عبر Google news
The United Arab Emirates’ air defenses intercepted a barrage of Iranian missiles and drones on Tuesday, March 18, 2026, amid escalating regional tensions. This latest exchange forms part of a wider conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, according to reports.
Officials stated that Emirati air defenses successfully countered 13 ballistic missiles and 27 unmanned aerial vehicles originating from Iran. Since the beginning of the Iranian offensive, the UAE has reportedly intercepted a total of 327 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,699 drones. The sustained attacks highlight the increasing volatility in the region.
The attacks have tragically resulted in casualties, with two Emirati service members killed while performing their duties. Six civilians, identified as nationals of Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Palestine, also lost their lives. A diverse group of 158 individuals sustained injuries ranging in severity, representing citizens from over twenty countries, including the UAE, Egypt, and as far afield as Sweden and Indonesia.
The UAE Ministry of Defense has issued a strong statement, asserting its full preparedness to respond to any future threats and to resolutely defend the nation’s security and sovereignty. The UAE’s Minister of Foreign Affairs issued a statement of strong condemnation regarding the Iranian attacks. UAE officials have also stated that Iran is isolating itself and that justifications for its aggressive escalation are unacceptable.
