The UAE's air defence systems successfully intercepted six hostile drones over the past 48 hours as they attempted to target civilian and vital sites in the country.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed there were no casualties, praising the armed forces for their high level of readiness and rapid response.
Authorities also revealed new findings from their investigation into the attack on the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant on May 17.
Tracking and technical monitoring confirmed three drones involved in that incident — including two that were intercepted and one that struck an electricity generator outside the plant’s inner perimeter — as well as other drones intercepted later, all originated from Iraqi territory.
The UAE says it reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and national security in line with international law.
The Ministry also reaffirmed the full readiness of the armed forces to respond to any threats.
The Ministry of Defence announced that over the past 48 hours, UAE air defence systems successfully detected and intercepted six hostile UAVs that attempted to target civilian and vital areas in the country.
— وزارة الدفاع |MOD UAE (@modgovae) May 19, 2026
The air defence forces successfully intercepted and neutralised the… pic.twitter.com/tsAYELqIRO

UAE confirms readiness to respond to Ebola developments
UAE unveils AED 1 billion space cooperation programme
First look: Etihad Rail's Fujairah Passenger Station
Dubai Media Retreat drives next phase of industry growth
