Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai / Riyadh / Doha
Dubai/Riyadh/Doha, Feb 28: Loud explosions were heard across parts of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh and Doha on Saturday as Iran launched a counterattack following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets.
Multiple blasts reported in UAE
Witnesses in Abu Dhabi reported hearing multiple loud booms in quick succession. One resident said at least five explosions were heard within seconds. A loud bang was also heard in Dubai, though officials did not immediately clarify the exact cause of the noise.
According to reports, one person was killed in Abu Dhabi after shrapnel from an intercepted Iranian missile struck the victim. The United Arab Emirates confirmed that its air defence systems intercepted several incoming ballistic missiles.
In an official statement, the UAE Ministry of Defence described the missile attack as a blatant aggression and said the country’s air defence systems responded with high efficiency, successfully intercepting multiple missiles. Abu Dhabi also stated that it reserves its full right to respond and termed the attack a dangerous escalation.
Explosions in Saudi capital Riyadh
In Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh, correspondents reported hearing a loud bang followed by several explosions after Iran vowed retaliation against US and Israeli strikes. Authorities have not yet released detailed information on damage or casualties.
Missiles intercepted over Qatar
Explosions were also reported in Doha, Qatar, as Iranian missiles were reportedly intercepted in the air. An Indian resident in Doha said the sounds appeared to be from missiles being neutralised at a distance. Residents said they were staying indoors as a precaution while closely monitoring developments.
Airspace closures and heightened alert
Earlier in the day, the UAE partially closed its airspace following the strikes on Iran. Kuwait also confirmed that it engaged and intercepted incoming missile threats.
The US Embassy in the UAE issued a shelter-in-place advisory for its staff in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, urging American citizens to remain in secure locations and monitor official updates.
Escalation after strikes on Iran
The developments come after the United States and Israel carried out strikes on Iranian targets on Saturday. Residents in Tehran reported powerful explosions, with smoke seen rising in parts of the city. The first apparent strike was reported near key government offices, escalating tensions in the region.
The rapidly evolving situation has heightened security concerns across the Gulf, with governments closely monitoring developments and advising residents to remain cautious. Further updates are awaited as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East.