Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates announced that its air defense systems successfully destroyed six ballistic missiles and intercepted 125 drones originating from Iran on Thursday.

According to Anadolu Agency, the UAE Ministry of Defense released a statement on the US social media platform X, revealing that air defenses detected a total of seven ballistic missiles, managing to destroy six, with one missile landing within the country's territory.

The ministry further detailed that 131 drones were detected, with 125 intercepted successfully while six drones fell inside the UAE. Since the onset of Iranian attacks on Saturday, air defense systems have identified 196 ballistic missiles, destroying 181, while 13 missiles fell into the sea, with two landing within the country.

Additionally, the ministry reported detecting 1,072 Iranian drones, of which 1,001 were intercepted, and 71 fell within UAE territory. The ministry also noted the detection and destruction of eight cruise missiles by air defense systems.

The attacks have resulted in the deaths of three individuals of Pakistani, Nepali, and Bangladeshi nationalities, with 94 others sustaining minor injuries. The UAE Ministry of Defense emphasized the readiness of the armed forces to confront threats, ensuring the protection of the country's sovereignty, stability, and national interests.

Iran has been launching missiles and drones towards Israel and Gulf countries, including those hosting US military assets, since February 28. These attacks have caused casualties and damage to civilian sites, such as ports and residential buildings. Tehran claims these actions are in retaliation to a US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and top military officials.