Missile Debris in Abu Dhabi Kills Two, Including Indian National, Amid Regional Conflict
ABU DHABI — Falling debris from an intercepted ballistic missile killed two people, including an Indian national, and injured three others in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, authorities said.
The incident occurred after the United Arab Emirates’ air defense systems successfully intercepted a missile, with debris landing on Sweihan Street.
In a statement posted on X, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said, “the incident has resulted in the deaths of two individuals of Pakistani and Indian nationality, and in injuries ranging from serious to moderate sustained by three individuals of Emirati, Jordanian and Indian nationality.”
Authorities had earlier confirmed that emergency teams responded to reports of falling debris, which also caused damage to several vehicles.
“The incident resulted in the deaths of two unidentified individuals, three injuries, and damage to a number of cars. Further updates will be provided in due course,” the statement said.
Officials urged the public to rely only on verified information. “The public is advised to obtain information only from official sources and to avoid spreading rumours or unverified information,” the Abu Dhabi Media Office added.
The incident comes amid escalating tensions in West Asia. The ongoing conflict began on February 28 following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, which killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several senior military officials. Iran has since launched retaliatory drone and missile attacks targeting U.S. and Israeli assets, as well as locations across the region.
Earlier on Thursday, the UAE’s Ministry of Defence said its air defenses were actively responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran. The ministry also reassured residents that loud sounds reported in some areas were the result of interception operations.
“UAE air defences are currently responding to incoming missile and drone threats from Iran. MOD asserts that the sounds heard are the result of the Air Defence Systems intercepting missiles and drones,” the ministry said, advising residents to follow official safety guidance. (Source: IANS)
