Dubai, UAE, Abu Dhabi, Iran War News Highlights: Dubai’s skies lit up on Saturday, March 21, 2026, as UAE air defence systems intercepted three ballistic missiles and eight drones, according to the defence ministry. Iran has now fired a cumulative 1,740 drones and 338 ballistic missiles at the UAE since February 28.
In a major escalation, Iran fired two ballistic missiles at the joint US-UK base at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials. Neither hit, one failed in flight, and the other was intercepted by a US warship, but the strike signals Tehran may have longer-range missiles than previously assessed.
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Iran’s IRGC command also warned it would subject Ras Al-Khaimah to “crushing strikes,” claiming US rockets were fired from UAE soil. The UAE denied this. Abu Dhabi Police detained 109 people for filming attacks and sharing misleading content online.
Kuwait refinery ablaze; oil prices hit $119
Iran struck Kuwait’s Mina Al-Ahmadi refinery — processing 730,000 barrels per day — on Friday, triggering fires across multiple units. Saudi Arabia intercepted 22 Iranian drones targeting its Eastern Province oil reserves. Brent crude has surged from $70 to $119.50 per barrel since the conflict began. The Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of global oil flows, remains effectively closed.
Also Read: Strait of Hormuz explained | Petrol price impact in India today
Trump rules out ceasefire; USS Boxer deploys
Trump said Friday: “You don’t do a ceasefire when you’re literally obliterating the other side,” while signalling a possible wind-down on Truth Social. Some Iranian oil sanctions have been temporarily lifted to cool prices, expiring April 19. Around 2,500 Marines are deploying aboard the USS Boxer.
Also Read: What are Trump’s five war objectives?
Indians in the Gulf: Flights, casualties, advisory
Six Indian nationals have been killed in the conflict. Air India and Air India Express are operating 42 flights to West Asia on March 21, including 26 UAE services. The MEA has urged Indians in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait to register with their nearest Indian mission.
The Indian Express Global Desk remains committed to rigorous verification. Follow our live blog below for real-time tracking of Operation Epic Fury, regional airspace status, and diplomatic efforts to contain the escalation.
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