Iran fires missiles at UAE, breaching ceasefire as Gulf states and Western allies condemn aggression
A drone strike ignited a large fire at the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone, wounding three Indian nationals, while an empty crude oil tanker was targeted in the Strait of Hormuz.
The United Arab Emirates has successfully intercepted 15 missiles and four drones fired from Iran, an event that constitutes the first direct targeting of the UAE since the ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States came into force on 8 April. The attacks, which occurred on Monday, have been described by regional and international partners as a significant breach of the fragile truce and a violation of sovereignty.
Damage was reported at the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone, where a drone strike ignited a large fire that resulted in three Indian nationals being wounded. In a separate incident within the Strait of Hormuz, an empty crude oil tanker belonging to the state oil firm was targeted as it attempted to transit the critical waterway. The UAE Defence Ministry confirmed that its air defences engaged the incoming projectiles, preventing further impact on civilian infrastructure.
Neighbouring Gulf states have issued strong condemnations of the strikes, characterising them as threats to regional stability. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have all denounced the attacks as violations of sovereignty. Bahrain specifically termed the incidents dangerous escalation and terrorist attacks, while Kuwait highlighted the threat posed to maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
International diplomatic responses have followed swiftly, with leaders from Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and the European Union denouncing the aggression. Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany stated that Tehran must return to the negotiating table and cease hostilities, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for meaningful engagement in talks to ensure the ceasefire endures.
The European Union has also weighed in, with Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen describing the attacks as unacceptable and a clear violation of international law. She noted that security in the region has direct consequences for Europe, reinforcing the call for de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.
The Arab League Secretary-General further described the targeting of ships passing through the strait as piracy and serious extortion of security lanes. These coordinated responses underscore a unified front among Arab neighbours and Western allies to support UAE sovereignty and to demand an immediate end to the Iranian offensive.
