Micah Jonah
March 8, 2026
Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has said the United Arab Emirates is prepared to confront threats to its security as Iranian missile and drone attacks continue across the Gulf region.
Speaking during a visit to injured civilians at a hospital in Abu Dhabi, the Emirati leader said the country would remain resilient despite the escalating conflict.
“The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh; we are no easy prey,” he said, adding that the country was currently experiencing a period of war but would emerge stronger.
The remarks come amid a widening regional conflict following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, which has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf countries hosting American military assets.
Iranian strikes have affected several locations across the UAE, including areas around Dubai, where debris from intercepted projectiles reportedly caused the death of a driver.
Authorities also reported incidents near major sites such as Dubai International Airport, the Palm Jumeirah development and the Burj Al Arab.
Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian earlier apologized to neighbouring Gulf states for attacks launched from Iranian territory, saying the strikes were directed at United States military assets in the region.
However, the statement was contradicted by Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, who warned that Iran would continue heavy attacks on locations that were allegedly being used to support military operations against Tehran.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi later said Iran remained open to reducing tensions provided neighbouring countries did not allow their territory or airspace to be used for attacks on Iran.
The conflict has disrupted air travel, affected oil and gas production in the Gulf and raised concerns about global energy supplies as fighting continues across the region.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media reported that the country’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targeted United States forces at a base in Bahrain in retaliation for an alleged attack on a desalination facility on Iran’s Qeshm Island.
Iran has also continued missile exchanges with Israel, while US President Donald Trump warned that Washington could intensify strikes against Iranian targets as the conflict escalates.
