ISTANBUL

The UAE said on Wednesday its air defenses are currently intercepting missile and drone attacks launched from Iran, according to a statement by the Defense Ministry through US social media company X.

“The sounds heard in various areas of the country are the result of air defense systems intercepting ballistic missiles, and fighter jets intercepting drones and cruise aircraft,” the ministry said.

Israel and the US have continued a joint offensive on Iran since Feb. 28, killing around 1,300 people so far, including then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and damage to infrastructure while disrupting global markets and aviation.