Kathmandu— The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has intercepted a drone coming from Iran, following renewed hostilities between the United States and Iran. The UAE's Ministry of Defence rejected claims that its Al Menhad airbase was attacked, stating these reports were false. This incident comes after US forces struck two Iranian launchers on Larak Island, prompting Iran to retaliate by attacking bases in Jordan and the UAE.

UAE's Response

The UAE’s Ministry of Defence issued a statement on X, urging the public to rely on official sources for information. Later, the ministry confirmed that its air force intercepted a drone over its territorial waters, which was approaching from Iran. The incident underscores the heightened tensions in the region following the recent US-Iran attacks.

Iran's Retaliation

According to Iranian media, Iran retaliated by attacking two bases used by US forces in Jordan and the UAE’s Al Menhad airbase. The Iranian army claimed its drone attack on the UAE’s airbase targeted sites where US forces were stationed. This escalation comes as part of a broader conflict that has seen Iran carry out multiple attacks on Gulf countries since late February.

Stalled Negotiations

The renewed hostilities come amid ongoing efforts to resume negotiations aimed at ending the war between the US and Iran. High-level delegations from mediators Oman, Pakistan, and Qatar visited Tehran last week in an attempt to advance these talks. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical issue, with Trump stating that all mines have been removed from international waters, while Iran continues to assert control over ship transit.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.