Abu dhabi: The UAE air defence systems engaged six ballistic missiles and 21 UAVs launched from Iran on 16th March 2026. This marked another incident in a series of attacks that have posed significant threats to the region's security.
According to Emirates News Agency, since the onset of Iranian aggression, UAE air defences have been actively involved in countering aerial threats. To date, they have engaged a total of 304 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,627 UAVs. These hostile actions have resulted in the martyrdom of two members of the UAE armed forces who were performing their national duty. Additionally, five fatalities have occurred among civilians of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, and Palestinian nationalities.
The attacks have also led to injuries for 145 people, with the severity of injuries ranging from minor to severe. The injured individuals include nationals from a wide array of countries, highlighting the global impact of these threats. Affected countries include the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Trkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, and Sweden.
The Ministry of Defence has declared its preparedness to address any threats, affirming its commitment to firmly confront any attempts to undermine the state's security. The ministry emphasized its dedication to protecting the nation's sovereignty, security, and stability, while safeguarding its national interests and capabilities.
