On February 28, several explosions occurred in Dubai and other cities in the Persian Gulf, and air defense systems were reported to be operational, according to international news agency Reuters and UAE state media.
Events
Iran's retaliatory measures included launching missiles aimed at several countries in the region, including the UAE, in response to the joint actions of the US and Israel against Iran.
Some of the missiles were intercepted by UAE air defense systems; however, debris fell on the city, causing loud explosions.
The explosion occurred near a hotel in the "Palm Jumeirah" area, resulting in at least four injuries, according to AFP.
The UAE Ministry of Defense confirmed that the air defense systems successfully intercepted the missiles.
According to state media, among the first casualties were civilians who were injured by falling debris in Abu Dhabi.
Although UAE authorities did not announce a large-scale evacuation, part of the airspace over the country was temporarily closed.
Local residents and tourists in Dubai witnessed the explosions and the operation of air defense systems, while in some areas the situation remained calm despite isolated loud sounds, eyewitnesses and media reported.
The sounds of explosions were also heard in the Dubai Marina area; however, no mass destruction was reported.
The escalation of the conflict occurred against the backdrop of a US and Israeli military operation against Iran, which led to retaliatory strikes by Iran on American military facilities and sabotage actions in the region.
*video @middleeasteye
