UAE warns of retaliation after Iranian strikes hit Abu Dhabi

In response to joint strikes by Israel and the United States, neighbouring Iran has launched missile attacks on US bases in at least five countries across the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.

Multiple explosions were heard in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi and the major city of Dubai. Al Jazeera reported that at least one person has been killed in Abu Dhabi.

Following the attack, the UAE Ministry of Defence issued a statement condemning it. The statement said, "Targeting civilian installations and state institutions is a dangerous and cowardly act. It threatens the safety of civilians and undermines stability."

The statement said Iran has launched ballistic missile attacks targeting neighbouring UAE and that "several" missiles have been intercepted.

The UAE stated that it has the "full right" to respond to Iran's attack.

The statement further said, "This attack is a clear violation of the UAE's national sovereignty and international law. The UAE reserves the full right to respond and take all necessary measures to defend its territory."

The UAE also noted that it is fully prepared to confront any threat.