A loud explosion was heard in Dubai on Wednesday night, amid the UAE issuing safety alerts after missile and drone threats from Iran.
However, Dubai authorities confirmed that the sounds heard in various areas were the result of successful interceptions by air defenses.
"Authorities in Dubai confirm that the sounds heard across parts of the city were the result of successful air defence interception operations. Please rely on official sources for updates," said Dubai Media Office in a post on X.
Meanwhile, in a statement, the UAE's Defence Ministry said that air defenses are currently engaging with missile attacks and incoming drones from Iran, and sounds heard in scattered areas of the country are the result of the air defense systems intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones.
"The UAE Air Defences system is actively engaging with missiles and UAV threats. The sounds heard across the country are the result of ongoing engaging operations of missiles and UAVs," said UAE's Defence Ministry.
According to Gulf News, in a message sent to phones across the country on Tuesday, authorities said, "Thank you for your cooperation. We reassure you that the situation is currently safe. You may resume your normal activities while remaining cautious and take the necessary precautions, and follow official instructions.”
Last week, at least two people were killed and three injured after debris from missiles intercepted by the air defence system fell on a street in Abu Dhabi, local media reported.
A total of 166 people were also injured till Wednesday, with injuries ranging from minor to moderate and severe.
The injured included nationals of the UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Yemen, Uganda, Eritrea, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Comoros, Türkiye, Iraq, Nepal, Nigeria, Oman, Jordan, Palestine, Ghana, Indonesia, Sweden and Tunisia, it said.
The Ministry of Defence said that it is fully prepared and ready to deal with any threats, and will firmly confront any attempts to undermine State security in a manner that ensures the protection of its sovereignty, security and stability, and safeguards its national interests and capabilities.
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