The UAE said the vast majority of the 137 missiles and 209 drones fired at its territory by Iran were destroyed or intercepted, the defence ministry has said, as Tehran launched a barrage of projectiles at Gulf states after being attacked by the US and Israel.

“The ministry expressed that it is on high alert and readiness to deal with any threats, and that it is taking all necessary measures to firmly confront everything that targets the disruption of the country’s security and stability, and affirmed that the safety of citizens, residents and visitors represents an utmost priority that cannot be compromised,” the ministry said a statement posted on X.