UAE intercepts three Iranian missiles as drone strike wounds three Indian workers

Tensions in the Gulf have risen after a Pakistani‑mediated ceasefire between the United States and Iran began on April 8, but negotiations have stalled and rhetoric has intensified. Both sides have exchanged warnings over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, and the UAE has reported repeated Iranian missile and drone attempts against its territory.

The UAE Ministry of Defence stated that its air defences intercepted three ballistic or cruise missiles launched from Iran, while a fourth missile landed in the sea. A drone launched from Iran struck an oil facility in the emirate of Fujairah, sparking a fire; civil defence teams contained the blaze and three Indian nationals were taken to hospital with moderate injuries. EU President Ursula von der Leyen said on social media that the Iranian attacks are unacceptable and emphasized that security in the Gulf region has direct consequences for Europe, urging de‑escalation and diplomatic resolution.

The interceptions underscore the UAE’s active air‑defence posture amid heightened regional hostilities. The drone‑caused fire highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to asymmetric attacks and raises concerns about the safety of expatriate workers in the Gulf. The EU’s warning signals that European policymakers view Gulf instability as a matter of strategic interest, potentially influencing future diplomatic or sanctions initiatives.