The Ministry of Defense of the United Arab Emirates announced early Friday, 18th of Sawr, that the country’s air defense systems are countering missile and drone attacks attributed to Iran.
The ministry emphasized that the explosion sounds heard in several areas of the UAE were the result of interception operations, and none of the attacking targets struck UAE territory.
This incident occurred one day after a limited clash between U.S. and Iranian forces near the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy transit routes, with about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied gas passing through it.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that three U.S. destroyers were targeted while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, but were unharmed. He said that U.S. forces responded and struck the attacking forces. Trump described this clash as “minor” and added that the ceasefire remains in place.
In contrast, the Iranian Armed Forces Command stated that U.S. forces had violated the ceasefire. Iranian officials claimed that U.S. forces targeted an Iranian oil tanker and another ship, and attacked coastal areas and Qeshm Island.
A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters also stated that in response to these attacks, U.S. military ships were targeted and sustained “significant damage.”
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) rejected these claims, stressing that none of its equipment or assets were damaged. CENTCOM also stated that U.S. forces only targeted certain military facilities along the Iranian coast, including areas near Qeshm and Bandar Abbas, in response to “non-provocative” Iranian attacks.
Since the ceasefire was established in early Hamal, both sides have had several sporadic clashes. Following the recent attacks on the UAE, reports emerged of a limited fire in the Fujairah oil industrial area and a few minor injuries.
However, no independent or reliable sources, including satellite imagery or international media reports, have confirmed large-scale human casualties or significant damage.
Currently, tensions in the region remain high, and diplomatic efforts to maintain and strengthen the ceasefire continue.
Writer:Slima Aryaei
