"The United Arab Emirates (UAE) air defense detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran towards our country, with the first falling outside territorial waters and the second inside," the UAE Ministry of Defense announced on 18/8.

In a subsequent updated statement, the ministry stated that the two missiles "targeted maritime activities and fell into the sea".

The UAE issued its initial statement nearly two hours after residents received phone alerts about a "potential missile threat". They were urged to "immediately seek safe shelter in the nearest sturdy building".

This marks the first time the UAE has issued such a notification since a false alarm in june, and a warning issued in july about an attack that ultimately did not enter the country's territory.

Citing the escalating situation in the region, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the suspension of all commercial and financial transactions with Iran until further notice.

Iran's Kheibar Shekan medium-range ballistic missile at a rally in Tehran in 2025. Photo: AFP

Meanwhile, Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei rejected the UAE's accusation that Tehran had "fired missiles towards its country", calling it a move that harms regional trust and security efforts. He did not address the UAE's claim that Iran had targeted "maritime activities".

Oil tankers belonging to the UAE's state-owned oil and gas company ADNOC have been targeted multiple times in recent weeks. Iran has warned that the Strait of Hormuz, which ships departing UAE ports must pass through to exit the Persian Gulf, will remain closed until Tehran reaches a peace agreement with the US.

US President Donald Trump announced on 18/8 that no negotiations were ongoing or planned with Iran, despite special envoy Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, stating one day earlier that the two countries were having "very positive exchanges".

Location of the Strait of Hormuz, UAE, and Iran. Graphic: Guardian

Mohammad Mokhber, advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader, stated on 18/8 that the country remains ready for dialogue with the US, but cautioned against confusing negotiations with surrender. He affirmed that sanctions and military pressure would not shake Iran's resolve, adding that Tehran would protect its security, dignity, and allies without seeking war.

Since the Middle East conflict erupted in late february, Iran has launched nearly 3,000 missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) towards the UAE, more than any other location in the region. However, after a memorandum between the US and Iran came into effect in june, the UAE recorded no further attacks, unlike other Gulf nations.

Pham Giang (According to AFP, Reuters)