UAE intercepts 134 Iranian missiles and drones as Dubai International Airport suspends flights
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) air defense systems successfully intercepted 15 ballistic missiles and 119 drones launched from Iran on Saturday. According to a statement from the UAE Ministry of Defense, while most threats were neutralized, debris from two drones fell within the country's territory.
The Ministry reaffirmed that the UAE Armed Forces remain at full combat readiness to counter any threats. Officials emphasized a firm response to any attempts aimed at undermining national security or territorial integrity.
Operational impact at DXB
Early Saturday morning, verified footage showed an Iranian drone crashing at Dubai International Airport (DXB) following its interception. The world’s busiest international hub briefly grounded operations and suspended activity to ensure passenger safety before resuming scheduled flights.
Local authorities confirmed that the debris fell only after the successful engagement by defense systems. No significant infrastructure damage or casualties were reported at the airport site during the incident.
Geopolitical contradictions
The attack reveals a stark rift within the Iranian leadership. Previously, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that the interim council leading the country had approved a suspension of strikes against neighboring states.
However, the Iranian Armed Forces Command Center subsequently issued a conflicting directive. The military leadership declared that U.S. and Israeli bases across the region—whether on land, at sea, or in space—are now considered "primary targets."
Translation by Iurie Tataru
