UAE Reports New Attacks Despite Fragile Hormuz Ceasefire

DUBAI: (Web Desk) – The United Arab Emirates reported fresh missile and drone attacks on Tuesday, which it attributed to Iran, even as the United States insisted that a fragile ceasefire in the region remains in place.

According to the administration of Donald Trump, US naval forces have been deployed to secure commercial shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz under an operation named “Project Freedom.” The US military said it destroyed several Iranian small boats, along with incoming drones and cruise missiles, during the mission.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the operation is temporary and aimed solely at ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels. He emphasized that Washington is not seeking escalation and that the ceasefire, though fragile, is still holding.

PM Shehbaz & MBS Condemn UAE Attacks Urge Regional Peace

However, tensions remain high. US officials said Iran targeted American vessels and launched attacks toward the UAE, a key US ally in the region. Shortly after, Emirati authorities confirmed that their air defence systems were again intercepting missiles and drones.

The UAE described the attacks as a serious escalation and warned that it reserves the right to respond in self-defense. Meanwhile, Iranian officials have issued conflicting statements—some denying involvement while others warned that continued actions by the US and its allies could further destabilize the region.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route for oil and fertilizers, has been largely disrupted since the conflict escalated earlier this year. The United States claims to have secured limited passage for some vessels, while Iran disputes those claims.

Reports from the Gulf region indicated explosions and fires on several commercial ships, and an oil facility in Fujairah was reportedly set ablaze during recent strikes, further intensifying concerns over global energy supplies.

Despite the hostilities, diplomatic efforts continue. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said talks mediated by Pakistan are making progress, though key disagreements remain unresolved.

Military officials say that while multiple incidents have occurred since the ceasefire was announced, they have not yet crossed the threshold that would trigger a full-scale resumption of war.

The conflict, which began earlier this year, has already caused significant loss of life and economic disruption worldwide, with rising oil prices and instability affecting global markets.