By Marita Moaje
MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday assured continued vigilance in the Middle East, saying the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains stable despite recent missile and drone threats.
“The UAE experienced renewed missile and drone threats on 27 March, which were intercepted by its air defense systems. Initial assessments indicate that no major local or international sites were affected,” the DFA said in an update.
The DFA noted that UAE defense systems successfully neutralized the aerial threats. However, authorities implemented precautionary measures, including travel advisories warning of operational disruptions due to fresh attacks and adverse weather conditions.
Citing a report from Gulf News, the DFA said UAE air defenses intercepted six ballistic missiles and nine unmanned aerial vehicles launched from Iran.
Since the start of the attacks, a total of 378 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,835 UAVs have been intercepted.
The DFA said it continues to closely monitor developments through its foreign service posts in the region.
It added that as of March 17, UAE authorities conducted 8,168 market inspection visits, issuing 729 warnings and 216 penalties to curb opportunistic pricing, prevent localized inflation and restore consumer confidence.
“Following the end of Ramadan, the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai has resumed full operations and has provided a total of 1,154 consular services as of 27 March,” the DFA said. (PNA)
