The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the United Arab Emirates is currently in a “state of defense” following what it described as a large-scale and unprovoked attack by Iran involving ballistic missiles and drones.
According to the official statement released on Sunday, Iranian forces launched more than 1,400 ballistic missiles and drones targeting infrastructure and civilian locations inside the UAE. Authorities said the strikes resulted in civilian deaths and injuries, raising serious concerns about regional security and the safety of residents.
The UAE government described the attacks as a serious violation of international law and the United Nations Charter, stating that they represent a direct infringement on the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairshttps://t.co/TDLs1OI7X3 pic.twitter.com/Wl4Vjv8sky
— MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) March 8, 2026
Background of the Iranian Attacks on UAE and Gulf Region
Since late February 2026, Iran has launched repeated waves of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones toward multiple Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and others. Reports indicate:
- UAE air defense systems have intercepted the vast majority of threats (hundreds of missiles and thousands of drones in cumulative attacks).
- Some projectiles caused collateral damage, civilian injuries, and limited fatalities (including foreign nationals).
- Targets have included infrastructure, residential areas, airports, ports, and service facilities — shifting from initial focus on US military sites to broader civilian impacts.
The UAE has repeatedly stated it is not a party to the wider conflict, has not allowed its territory for attacks on Iran, and condemns the aggression as irresponsible and unlawful.
In response, the UAE has taken diplomatic steps like closing its embassy in Tehran and withdrawing its ambassador, while participating in international discussions (e.g., EU-GCC meetings) to rally support and urge restraint.