UAE Discloses Identities of Six Expatriates Killed in Iran's Sustained Aerial Assaults
The United Arab Emirates has officially revealed the names of six individuals who lost their lives in the ongoing missile and drone attacks launched by Iran, bringing the human toll into sharp focus as the conflict stretches into its third week. This development underscores the escalating impact of the hostilities, which have seen thousands of aerial threats intercepted by UAE defense systems.
Death Toll Rises to Eight with Expatriate Victims Identified
Since the attacks commenced on February 28, a total of eight people have been killed, including two armed forces personnel who died while performing their national duty. The UAE has now disclosed the identities of the six expatriates among the deceased, highlighting the international dimension of the casualties. The victims are:
- Alaa Nader Awni from the State of Palestine
- Murib Zaman Nizar from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
- Muzaffar Ali Ghulam from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
- Ismail Salim Khan from the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
- Ahmed Ali from the People’s Republic of Bangladesh
- Dibas Shrestha from the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal
Several others were injured in the strikes, and wishes have been conveyed for their swift and complete recovery. The attacks have targeted a range of sites, including airports and residential neighborhoods, indicating a broad assault that extends beyond military infrastructure to civilian areas.
Over 2,000 Missiles and Drones Intercepted in 18 Days
Over the past 18 consecutive days, the UAE has faced more than 2,000 aerial threats, demonstrating the intensity and persistence of the offensive. Air defense systems have been actively engaged, successfully intercepting a significant number of these threats. The breakdown of intercepted weapons includes:
- 314 ballistic missiles
- 15 cruise missiles
- 1,672 drones
This massive interception effort highlights the UAE's robust defense capabilities amid the relentless attacks. The conflict has drawn global attention, with the United Nations Security Council adopting Resolution 2817, co-sponsored by 136 UN Member States. The resolution calls for an immediate and unconditional halt to the attacks and holds Iran responsible for damages and losses affecting Gulf states and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Expresses Condemnation and Readiness to Respond
H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed his sincere condolences and deep sympathy to the families of the victims. He extended condolences to the State of Palestine, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, and the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, emphasizing the unprovoked nature of the attacks.
Sheikh Abdullah described the continued missile and drone strikes as a violation of the UAE’s sovereignty and a threat to regional and international stability. He stated that the UAE reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty, national security, and territorial integrity, in line with its right to self-defence under international law.
He emphasized that national authorities remain fully prepared to address any threats, with readiness levels at their highest. Despite the ongoing attacks, the overall security situation across the country remains stable, supported by established institutional frameworks and professional standards. Sheikh Abdullah also acknowledged the support and solidarity expressed by more than 130 countries, describing it as a reflection of international confidence in the UAE’s diplomatic standing and long-standing commitment to regional and global stability.
The escalation in the region continues to be closely monitored, with the UAE signaling its determination to defend itself while seeking diplomatic resolutions to the conflict.
