UAE Intercepts 165 Ballistic Missiles and 541 Iranian Drones; Three Killed

The UAE says it intercepted 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and 541 drones launched from Iran since February 28. Three people were killed and 58 injured, according to the Ministry of Defense.

Roshani Shrestha Pathak

Sunday, 1 March 2026, 20:20

A view of the Abu Dhabi skyline as UAE air defense systems remain on high alert following missile and drone launches from Iran since February 28.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Defense has released detailed figures on the Iranian attacks that began on February 28, confirming that the country intercepted 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles, and 541 drones launched toward its territory.

According to the ministry, UAE air defense systems successfully neutralized the majority of the incoming threats. Of the 165 ballistic missiles fired from Iran, 152 were destroyed, while 13 fell into the sea. The two cruise missiles were detected and intercepted.

The attacks resulted in three fatalities. Authorities confirmed that one of the victims was a Nepali national, though the identity has not been disclosed. The other two victims were citizens of Pakistan and Bangladesh.

In addition, 58 people sustained minor injuries. The injured include nationals of the UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, and Afghanistan.

The UAE Ministry of Defense stated that security forces remain on high alert and emphasized that protecting residents and foreign nationals remains a priority. The incident highlights escalating regional tensions in the Gulf, as international observers continue to call for restraint and diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation.