Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates announced on Sunday that it is in a 'state of defense' following a series of Iranian drone and missile attacks. The UAE Foreign Ministry reported that these 'brutal and unprovoked Iranian assaults' included the launch of over 1,400 missiles and drones targeting infrastructure and civilian sites across the country, resulting in civilian casualties and injuries.
According to Anadolu Agency, the UAE expressed that these attacks are a blatant violation of international law, the UN Charter, and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the UAE. The Foreign Ministry emphasized that the assaults pose a threat to the nation's security and stability.
The UAE clarified that it does not aim for escalation or involvement in conflicts. However, the ministry highlighted that the country reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, national security, and territorial integrity in line with international law and the UN Charter.
The regional tension escalated after Israel and the US conducted a joint attack on Iran on February 28, resulting in the death of over 1,200 people, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, and injuring more than 10,000. Tehran's response involved missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries hosting US military assets.