The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defense says four cruise missiles approaching from Iran were detected, with three intercepted over territorial waters and a fourth falling into the sea.
Authorities said explosion sounds heard across parts of the country were the result of air defense operations neutralizing the incoming threats.
At the same time, local officials in Fujairah reported a fire in an oil-related area, which they say was caused by a suspected drone attack.
Iran has not officially responded to the allegations.
The incidents come amid heightened regional tensions, particularly as the United States increases its military presence in the Strait of Hormuz.
The developments suggest that the Gulf crisis may be moving beyond limited maritime threats toward potential direct targeting of critical infrastructure.
In such a volatile environment, even contained engagements carry the risk of rapid escalation into broader confrontation—one that could extend beyond the region and impact global energy markets.
Iran’s silence on the claims adds further uncertainty, potentially increasing the likelihood of political and military escalation.
