Iran Strikes UAE Oil Site as Gulf Tensions Rise
Iran launched drone and missile strikes targeting the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone in the United Arab Emirates, sparking a large fire and marking one of the most serious incidents since a ceasefire took hold last month. Emergency crews contained the blaze, while three Indian nationals were injured and taken to hospital.
The UAE Ministry of Defence said it intercepted 12 ballistic missiles, four drones and three cruise missiles approaching the country. Residents received emergency alerts for the first time since the truce began, urging them to stay indoors and avoid open areas.
The incident comes amid rising tensions after Donald Trump said the United States would help guide commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, a move rejected by Iran, which warned foreign forces against entering the area.
Fujairah is a key oil export hub that allows the UAE to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, making it strategically important for global energy markets. Any disruption there raises concerns about oil supply and regional stability.
A senior Iranian official later said Tehran did not intend to target the UAE, though the statement appeared to contradict earlier reports of confirmed strikes. The situation remains tense, with conflicting signals from both sides.
In response, UAE authorities shifted schools and nurseries to remote learning from May 5 to May 8, citing safety concerns. Officials said the measure could be extended depending on developments.
The UAE condemned the attack, calling it a violation of international law and warning it would take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and security.
The strike comes as ceasefire talks between Washington and Tehran remain stalled, with disputes over maritime security and military activity continuing to fuel instability in the Gulf region.
Recent weeks have seen repeated incidents involving missiles, drones and shipping threats, raising fears that the fragile truce could collapse and lead to wider conflict affecting global trade routes.
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