Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed on Friday (May 8) that three people sustained moderate injuries after the country’s air defence systems intercepted ballistic missiles and drones during renewed aerial attacks. According to the ministry, UAE defence systems successfully engaged two ballistic missiles and three drones during the latest incident. Authorities in Fujairah separately confirmed that loud sounds heard across parts of the emirate on Friday morning were the result of successful aerial interception operations carried out by defence forces. The Ministry of Defence urged residents to remain calm, stay in safe locations, and rely solely on official channels for updates and instructions. Authorities also warned against spreading rumours or misinformation on social media during sensitive security situations. The renewed attacks came after overnight exchanges of fire between the US and Iran near the Strait of Hormuz, testing a fragile ceasefire that had been in place for about a month. According to officials, Iran has targeted the UAE and other Gulf countries hosting US military bases since the conflict escalated on February 28. Daily drone and missile attacks continued until April 3 before the UAE announced on April 4 that its skies were free from aerial threats following a ceasefire between the US and Iran. However, attacks resumed earlier this week, with incidents reported on Monday (May 4), Tuesday (May 5), and again on Friday (May 8). Since February 28, UAE defence systems have intercepted 551 ballistic missiles, 29 cruise missiles and 2,263 unmanned aerial vehicles. The total number of people injured since the conflict began has risen to 230, according to authorities. Those injured include residents and nationals from multiple countries, including the UAE, the Philippines, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, Yemen, Jordan, Lebanon, Bahrain, Afghanistan, Turkey, Nigeria, Morocco, Russia and several other nationalities. Authorities also confirmed that three military personnel, including a Moroccan civilian contractor working with the armed forces, have died since the conflict began. Civilian fatalities currently stand at 10 involving several nationalities, including Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi, Palestinian, Indian and Egyptian nationals. The Ministry of Defence said it remains fully prepared to respond to threats targeting the country’s security and critical infrastructure. Officials stressed that public safety remains a top priority while defence and emergency agencies continue to monitor regional developments. ICA/Expat Media
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