UAE, Kuwait say air defenses hit Iranian missiles and drones

The United Arab Emirates and Kuwait announced in the early hours of Monday that their respective air defenses successfully engaged projectiles fired from Iranian territory. The UAE Defense Ministry, posting on social media platform X, stated that its systems intercepted ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles originating from Iran. Kuwait’s Defense Ministry similarly reported that its units had targeted and neutralized “enemy” missiles and drones.

Interception Operations and Public Safety

Both ministries clarified that the loud blasts heard by residents across the two Gulf nations were the direct result of their air defense batteries responding to incoming threats. Authorities urged citizens and foreign residents to adhere to official security instructions and remain indoors until further notice. No casualties or significant damage have been reported so far.

Regional Fallout and Türkiye’s Position

The interception comes as part of Iran’s broader retaliation against the joint US‑Israeli military campaign that began on February 28. Tehran has previously launched drone and missile strikes toward Israel and Gulf states hosting American assets. Türkiye, which maintains close economic and diplomatic ties with Gulf partners, continues to advocate for de‑escalation. Ankara views any spillover of hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz or the wider Gulf as a direct threat to its energy security and regional trade routes.