The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has declared it is in a state of defense following what it describes as brutal and unprovoked aggression from Iran, involving the launch of over 1,400 ballistic missiles and drones. This dramatic escalation is part of the ongoing regional conflict stemming from joint US-Israel strikes on Iran earlier in 2026.
In an official statement released on March 8, 2026, by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the country strongly condemned the attacks, which reportedly targeted infrastructure and civilian sites, causing deaths and injuries among civilians. The statement emphasizes that these actions violate international law, the UN Charter, and UAE sovereignty.
Key Excerpts from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs Statement
“The United Arab Emirates affirms that it is in a state of defense in response to the brutal and unprovoked Iranian aggression, which included the launch of more than 1,400 ballistic missiles and drones targeting infrastructure and civilian sites, resulting in civilian deaths and injuries. These attacks constitute a flagrant violation of international law and the UN Charter, an infringement of the UAE’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a direct threat to its security and stability.”
The UAE reiterated its commitment to avoiding broader conflicts or escalation but affirmed its right to self-defense under international law:
“The UAE stresses that it does not seek to be drawn into conflicts or escalation. However, the UAE reaffirms its full right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty, national security, and territorial integrity, and to ensure the safety of its citizens and residents, in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.”
Background on the Iran-UAE Tensions in 2026
The attacks on the UAE appear to be retaliatory, linked to the wider 2026 Iran conflict involving US and Israeli military actions against Iranian targets. Reports indicate Iran has launched multiple waves of missiles and drones at Gulf states hosting US assets, including the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, since late February 2026.
UAE air defense systems have intercepted the majority of incoming projectiles in ongoing barrages, though some have caused limited damage, civilian casualties (including migrant workers), and injuries. Cumulative figures from UAE sources and international reports suggest hundreds of missiles and thousands of drones directed at the region, with the UAE claiming over 1,400 combined in total aggression to date.
The UAE has expressed solidarity with other affected Gulf nations and condemned the strikes as threats to regional stability. Diplomatic efforts, including calls by UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to counterparts, underscore calls for de-escalation while prioritizing national security.