The UAE Ministry of Defence has confirmed that national air defence systems successfully intercepted a wave of Iranian missile and drone threats in the early hours of Wednesday, March 18. Loud explosions were heard across Dubai as interceptors engaged incoming projectiles in the night sky. As a precaution, nationwide distance learning has been extended for two weeks. Authorities are urging residents to stay in safe locations during active alerts and to rely only on official Ministry of Defence channels for updates.
Al Minhad Air Base, located about 24 kilometers south of Dubai and long used by the UAE Air Force, allied forces including the Royal Air Force, and a small Australian contingent, came under attack again this morning. An Iranian projectile, likely a missile or drone, struck a road just outside the base around early morning local time). It sparked a fire causing minor damage to an accommodation block and a medical facility in the Australian-operated section. UAE defenses were active, but this marks the second Iranian hit on the base since the conflict escalated, following an initial drone strike in the opening days.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the incident directly, confirming the strike near Al Minhad and stressing that no Australian Defence Force personnel were injured – all are safe and accounted for.
