The United Arab Emirates, UAE, has come under a large-scale drone and missile attack attributed to Iran, with strikes hitting critical infrastructure and prompting widespread international condemnation amid rising fears of regional conflict.
Authorities in the UAE said multiple drones and projectiles targeted strategic installations on Tuesday, including a major port facility where explosions triggered fires and disrupted operations.
Although air defence systems intercepted several incoming threats, some projectiles reportedly struck their targets, damaging infrastructure and injuring civilians, including foreign nationals.
The incident has intensified tensions across the Gulf, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments, raising concerns about the safety of maritime traffic and energy supplies.
Global leaders reacted swiftly to the development, condemning the attack and expressing support for the UAE.
Joseph Aoun declared “full solidarity” with Abu Dhabi, describing the strikes as “an assault on humanitarian values and international law.”
Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, called for restraint, emphasising the importance of maintaining the ceasefire to allow diplomatic efforts to continue.
India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, condemned the attack as “unacceptable,” particularly following reports that Indian nationals were among those injured, while urging the need for safe and uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
From Europe, António Costa urged Tehran to return to negotiations, warning that sustaining the ceasefire and reopening maritime routes are essential for regional stability.
Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, described the strikes as “unprovoked,” commending the UAE’s defensive response and calling for de-escalation.
The UAE government characterised the attack as a serious escalation and indicated that it reserves the right to respond, even as diplomatic pressure mounts on Iran to halt further hostilities.
Security analysts have warned that the coordinated strikes represent a significant escalation, increasing the risk of direct confrontation among regional powers and posing potential threats to global energy markets.
