Pakistani citizen killed in Iranian strikes in the United Arab Emirates

2026-02-28 - 14:04

ISLAMABAD – United Arab Emirates confirmed that a Pakistani national lost his life during Iranian missile attacks. The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed deep condolences to the victim’s family and pledged full solidarity in the wake of the tragedy. The incident occurred after joint strikes by US and Israel against Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate by launching missiles targeting US bases in the Gulf. UAE officials claimed most missiles were intercepted, but debris from one missile struck and killed an Asian individual, now confirmed to be Pakistani citizen. Ministry of Foreign Affairs lamented international law and humanitarian principles strictly prohibit targeting civilians and civilian property. The UAE strongly condemned Iran’s missile campaign, calling it a blatant violation of national sovereignty and international law. The government reaffirmed its solidarity with affected nations and warned that breaches of sovereignty pose a direct threat to regional stability and security. It reiterated calls for restraint and diplomatic solutions, stressing that dialogue remains the most effective path toward resolving the crisis. At the same time, the UAE asserted its right to defend its sovereignty and protect its citizens in accordance with international law, stating it “will not tolerate any compromise regarding its security.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that his country would use all available military resources to defend itself following the US and Israeli strikes. In communications with foreign ministers from several countries—including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iraq—he urged them to prevent their territories and facilities from being used against Iran. Explosions, air-raid sirens, and activated defense systems were reported across the Gulf, accompanied by plumes of smoke. Witnesses described terrifying scenes as air defenses intercepted incoming projectiles—one British resident in Bahrain recounted watching a Patriot missile system destroy a missile just overhead. This is not the first time Gulf states, including tourist hubs like Dubai, have faced conflict. Previous crises include the Iran-Iraq War (1980–88), Operation Desert Storm in 1991, the 2003 invasion of Iraq, and last year’s missile attack on a US base in Qatar. However, analysts warn that the current escalation is far more dangerous and could spiral into a broader regional conflict. Leaders from Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia had previously urged the US administration to avoid further strikes on Iran, fearing an uncontrolled escalation. Experts caution that if tensions continue to rise, the Middle East could face an unprecedented crisis—one that might extend far beyond the Gulf and reshape regional security for years to come.