New Delhi/Abu Dhabi, 28 February (H.S.): The United Arab Emirates advised citizens and residents to remain indoors and await further instructions after Iran launched retaliatory missile strikes targeting US military bases in the Gulf region following joint US-Israel attacks on Iran.

Hours after the strikes on Iranian territory, Tehran reportedly targeted American military installations in the Persian Gulf. Missiles were intercepted over several Middle East cities, including Doha and Abu Dhabi.

In Dubai, loud explosions were heard and plumes of smoke were seen rising near the Palm Jumeirah area. Authorities reported that four individuals were injured in an incident that led to a fire in a building in the area. Civil defence teams brought the blaze under control and the injured were shifted to medical facilities.

The UAE Ministry of Defence stated that its air defence systems successfully intercepted a number of ballistic missiles. It described the incident as a serious escalation and affirmed that all necessary measures were being taken to safeguard national security and stability.

According to official information, one civilian died in Abu Dhabi after being struck by falling debris.

The UAE said it reserves the right to respond to the attacks, terming them a dangerous escalation. Regional leaders also expressed concern over the situation. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed held discussions over the developments and condemned actions that threaten regional stability.

Amid the heightened tensions, governments of several countries issued advisories for their citizens in the Middle East, where a significant expatriate population resides. India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with the UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, conveying concern over the escalating situation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar