Why Iran is hitting UAE the hardest?
India Today
The UAE has faced the most intense barrage of Iranian attacks among the Gulf countries since the US-Israel war on Tehran began. Civilian and business infrastructure in Dubai and other hubs have been targeted. But why has the UAE been targeted more than its Gulf neighbours? Here's what's driving Iran's aggression against it.
Less than a month ago, Dubai and Abu Dhabi were teeming with tourists. In Ajman and Sharjah, trade — from oil to logistics to finance — was going on as usual. Today, air defence systems are active over these cities' skies, and fighter jets are making sorties over their skylines as the UAE is facing threats from Iranian missiles and drones.
Iran launched offensives across the Middle East following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes, but the UAE has especially been in the crosshairs.
Since Khamenei's killing on February 28, Iran has fired hundreds of missiles and drones in retaliation, targeting US bases and assets in multiple Gulf states. But reports suggest the UAE has been bearing the brunt more than any other Gulf country. As of March 15, air defences of the UAE have dealt with 298 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1,606 drones, said Abu Dhabi's Ministry of Defence.
These numbers are far ahead of Iran's offensive on its neighbours like Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia or Kuwait.
Civilian areas have been hit too, with debris damaging landmarks near the Burj Al Arab. Incidents of fire have been reported from the ports of the UAE. At least six casualties have been reported in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. At least one Indian has also been injured in Dubai, according to India's foreign ministry.
But why is Iran using this intensity against the UAE? There is a mix of reasons for this aggression. They are, both strategic and symbolic. Smoke rising from an area near the Dubai International Airport after a drone attack, amid the US-Israel war with Iran. (Image: Reuters)
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