Tensions flared again in the Gulf on Monday as Iran launched more than a dozen missiles along with several drones toward the United Arab Emirates, marking its first such strike since a fragile ceasefire came into effect last month.
At the same time, the United States military reported engaging Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump warned that Iran would face severe consequences if it targeted American vessels in the region.
The latest Iranian strikes appear to be linked to Washington’s renewed push to reopen the Strait of Hormuz — a vital route for global oil shipments. The US has recently begun escorting ships through the waterway, which has seen limited traffic due to ongoing tensions. According to US officials, two American-flagged commercial ships successfully passed through the strait on Monday under this initiative.
The UAE Ministry of Defense said its air defense systems intercepted 15 missiles and four drones. However, in Fujairah, one drone reportedly caused a fire at a major oil facility, injuring three Indian nationals. Meanwhile, the British military said two cargo ships caught fire off the UAE coast.
Authorities issued missile alerts across the country, urging residents to seek shelter — the first such warnings since the ceasefire began. Several commercial flights heading to major hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi were forced to turn back midair.
The UAE strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as a renewed act of aggression and calling for an immediate end to hostilities.
Fujairah, located on the Gulf of Oman, is strategically important as it serves as the endpoint of a pipeline designed to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. It also hosts major oil storage facilities and provides the UAE with direct maritime access outside the strait.
According to reports, Israel’s Iron Dome intercepted at least one incoming missile. Israeli officials also confirmed that a battery of the system, along with trained personnel, had been deployed to the UAE to help defend against Iranian attacks. However, they denied claims that the more advanced Iron Beam system had been sent, citing its sensitive nature.
Amid the escalation, an Israeli military official said the Israel Defense Forces remains on high alert, closely monitoring developments. The official added that while military readiness is at a high level, there have been no changes to civilian safety guidelines so far, though updates would be issued if necessary.
