UAE Attacked by Iran Amid US Strait of Hormuz Reopening; 4 Missiles Fired

The United Arab Emirates reported its first attack by Iran since an early April ceasefire, occurring as the US attempted to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE Defence Ministry stated Iran launched four cruise missiles, with three intercepted and one falling into the sea. Authorities in Fujairah reported an Iranian drone caused a fire at an oil facility, injuring three Indian nationals. The British military also noted two cargo vessels ablaze off the UAE coast.

These attacks followed the US military's announcement that two American-flagged merchant ships successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz under a new initiative. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of US Central Command, confirmed US forces opened a passage and sank six Iranian small boats targeting civilian vessels. He stated all Iranian threats, including multiple cruise missiles and drones, were defeated. Breaking Iran’s control over the strait aims to ease global economic concerns and reduce Tehran’s leverage, but risks reigniting full-scale conflict.

Iran’s military command warned that any foreign military force, especially the US, approaching or entering the Strait of Hormuz would be targeted. Major General Ali Abdollahi stated ships must coordinate with them. The US has enforced a naval blockade on Iranian ports since April 13, turning back at least 49 commercial ships, aiming to deprive Tehran of oil revenue and force concessions on its nuclear program. Iran’s latest peace proposal includes lifting sanctions, ending the blockade, and withdrawing US forces, but excludes nuclear issues.

Pakistan facilitated the transfer of 22 crew members from a US-seized Iranian vessel, the MV Touska, as a confidence-building measure to revive talks. The crew was flown to Pakistan for handover to Iranian authorities, and the vessel will undergo repairs in Pakistani waters before being returned.