Representational.
Dubai: The UAE Ministry of Defence said air defence systems intercepted 19 ballistic missiles and 26 drones launched from Iran on Thursday, as attacks intensified. Since the escalation began, a total of 457 ballistic missiles, 19 cruise missiles and 2,038 drones have been destroyed. Despite these interceptions, the overall toll has risen sharply, with casualties reaching 191. Authorities said efforts are ongoing to assess the threat and reinforce national security amid continuing hostilities.
The UAE Ministry of Defence said last weekend that the country’s air defence systems intercepted 16 ballistic missiles and 42 drones launched from Iran, amid continuing regional tensions. Authorities, however, confirmed that no dangerous incidents or new injuries were reported in connection with these interceptions.
Authorities had repeated calls for public caution, urging residents to rely only on verified official information and to avoid spreading unconfirmed reports. People have also been warned against approaching or handling debris from intercepted projectiles and advised to immediately alert emergency services if such objects are found.
The defence ministry said it remains fully prepared to counter any threats, stressing its commitment to safeguarding national security, stability and sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Oil prices surged more than 10 per cent on Thursday while global markets declined after US President Donald Trump announced plans to escalate military action against Iran in the coming weeks.
Futures for the S and P 500 dropped 1.5 per cent before the opening bell, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average futures fell 1.4 per cent and Nasdaq futures slid 2 per cent. Thursday marks the final trading day of the week ahead of the Good Friday break, with markets yet to register a weekly gain since the conflict began in late February.