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On March 22, UAE air defences engaged four ballistic missiles and 25 UAVs launched from Iran. Since the start of Iran attacks, UAE air defences have engaged 345 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,773 UAVs.
Six civilians have been killed, since the start of the aggression, of Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi and Palestinian nationalities; the attacks have also led to the martyrdom of 2 members of UAE armed forces. So far, 160 people have been injured.
UAE Ministry of Defence has constantly maintained that the country remains “fully prepared” to deal with any threats. The country has a well-equipped defence system, and maintains a “robust strategic stockpile of munitions, ensuring sustained interception and response capabilities over extended periods.”
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While UAE has always called for de-escalation, the country has also affirmed its right to respond, and protect its sovereignty in the case of attacks.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan affirmed, during a hospital visit on March 7, that the country is no “easy prey”, with his quote going viral on social media.
The President delivered the statement in a live broadcast evening while visiting civilians injured in the ongoing Iranian attacks. Sheikh Mohamed promised that the country “will emerge stronger than before, without doubt.”
Source: Khaleej Times