Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on phone to UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on March 18, 2026. In this conversation, PM Modi has strongly condemned the Iranian attacks on UAE. India has expressed concern over the loss of innocent lives and damage to civilian infrastructure. For the central government, the safety of about 35 lakh Indian expatriates living in UAE is of utmost importance.
📰: UAE Emergency Alert: Missiles and drones came from Iran, UAE Air Defense defended, everyone ordered to stay at home.
Attacks on UAE and latest situation
According to the UAE Defense Ministry, so far many attacks have been destroyed in the air. On March 17, 2026, UAE’s air defense system shot down 10 ballistic missiles and 45 drones fired by Iran. One person has been reported dead due to missile debris in Bani Yas area of Abu Dhabi.
Since February 28, 314 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1672 drones have been intercepted. So far, 2 armed forces personnel and 6 civilians have lost their lives in this conflict. The dead include Pakistani, Nepali, Bangladeshi and Palestinian citizens. A total of 157 people have been injured who are undergoing treatment.
The Defense Ministry has clarified that the loud sounds heard in some parts of the country are coming due to the interception of missiles by the air defense system. These are not direct attacks.
Important points of conversation between the two leaders
PM Modi informed on social media that he has expressed grief over the loss of life and property in the attacks. India always supports reducing tension, regional peace and security. During the conversation, both the leaders emphasized the need for safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Along with this, PM Modi also congratulated the President of UAE on Eid in advance.
In this entire matter, the Indian government has chosen the path of diplomacy and negotiations instead of joining the military alliance. UAE Foreign Ministry has also made it clear that there will be no compromise on national security. Apart from this, UAE Central Bank has also implemented a new financial package to keep the country’s banking sector safe.
