4 March 2026
Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following a series of attacks attributed to Iran, the government of the United Arab Emirates held an extensive press briefing on 4 March to update local and international media on the country’s military, security, and emergency response measures.
The briefing brought together senior officials representing the country’s defence, security, diplomatic, and crisis-management institutions. Among the speakers were Brigadier General Pilot Abdul Nasser Al Humaidi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence; Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Brigadier Abdulaziz Al Ahmad, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior; and Dr. Saif Al Dhaheri, spokesperson for the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority.
The officials presented a coordinated overview of the national response to the attacks, emphasizing defence readiness, internal security measures, and the activation of emergency response systems designed to ensure the protection of citizens, residents, and national infrastructure.
Defence Forces Intercept Hundreds of Missiles and Drones
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Brigadier General Abdul Nasser Al Humaidi described the scale of the attacks and the response by the UAE’s armed forces. According to the military briefing, air defence systems have intercepted 186 ballistic missiles launched toward the country since the beginning of the Iranian aggression this year, destroying 172 of them while others fell into the sea or were neutralized.
In addition, the armed forces detected 812 Iranian drones, intercepting the vast majority before they could reach their targets. Eight cruise missiles were also destroyed.
Al Humaidi stressed that the country’s multi-layered air defence system, supported by advanced fighter aircraft including F-16 and Mirage 2000 jets, has demonstrated high operational efficiency.
“The UAE will not, under any circumstances, accept any infringement upon its sovereignty, security, or the safety of its territory,” he said, adding that the armed forces remain fully prepared to take all necessary measures to defend the country.
Despite the intensity of the attacks, casualties have been limited. Officials reported three fatalities and 68 minor injuries, largely resulting from debris generated during interception operations rather than direct impacts.
Interior Ministry Strengthens Nationwide Security Measures
Addressing internal security, Brigadier Abdulaziz Al Ahmad confirmed that the overall security situation across the UAE remains stable, with authorities maintaining the highest level of readiness.
The Ministry of Interior has deployed an expanded security presence across the country, including more than 4,100 traffic and security patrols and over 3,200 specialized security vehicles. These forces operate within a national security system that coordinates with more than 25 government entities.
Advanced federal operations rooms, supported by modern surveillance technologies and real-time data analysis, are being used to monitor developments and ensure rapid response to any incidents.
Al Ahmad emphasized that the system enables response times that rank among the best internationally, while ensuring the continued delivery of public safety services during the crisis.
He also called on the public to rely exclusively on official sources of information and to follow safety guidelines issued by authorities.
National Emergency System Activated to Ensure Continuity of Essential Services
Dr. Saif Al Dhaheri, representing the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, outlined the country’s coordinated national response framework.
Since the escalation began, the UAE has activated its integrated national crisis-management system, ensuring close coordination among government agencies to safeguard lives and maintain essential services.
According to the authority, energy supply, telecommunications, healthcare, transport, and food distribution systems continue to operate normally, supported by contingency plans designed to maintain uninterrupted service even under emergency conditions.
Business continuity strategies have also been activated across key sectors, while the education system has shifted to remote learning where necessary to ensure that students can continue their academic programs without disruption.
“The national system has responded with high professionalism and proactive coordination,” Al Dhaheri stated, highlighting the role of joint planning and national preparedness exercises in strengthening the country’s resilience.
A Coordinated National Response
Throughout the briefing, officials stressed that the UAE’s response combines military defence, internal security, and emergency management coordination within a unified national framework.
While reaffirming the country’s right to defend its sovereignty, authorities emphasized that maintaining stability, safeguarding residents, and ensuring the continuity of daily life remain the central priorities.
The briefing also highlighted the role of transparent communication with international and local media in maintaining public confidence during a period of regional instability.
As tensions continue in the region, UAE officials reiterated that the country’s institutions remain fully mobilized to respond to any further developments while preserving security and stability across the federation.
