UAE intercepts four ballistic missiles and six drones launched from Iran, defense ministry says

The UAE Ministry of Defense said the country’s air defense systems successfully intercepted four ballistic missiles and six drones launched from Iran on March 15, 2026, as regional tensions continue to escalate.

In a statement, the ministry confirmed that the interceptions were carried out by the UAE’s defense systems, preventing the projectiles from reaching their intended targets.

According to the ministry, since the beginning of the Iranian attacks, the UAE’s air defenses have intercepted 298 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,606 drones.

Officials said the incidents have resulted in six fatalities involving nationals from the UAE, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

In addition, 142 people sustained minor to moderate injuries, including individuals from multiple nationalities such as Emirati, Egyptian, Sudanese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Azerbaijani, Yemeni, Ugandan, Eritrean, Lebanese, Afghan, Bahraini, Comorian, Turkish, Iraqi, Nepali, Nigerian, Omani, Jordanian, Palestinian, Ghanaian, Indonesian, and Swedish nationals.

The ministry reiterated that the UAE’s defence forces remain fully prepared to deal with any threats and will respond firmly to attempts to undermine the country’s security.

Officials added that the armed forces remain committed to protecting the UAE’s sovereignty, stability, and national interests while continuing to monitor the evolving regional situation closely.