Successive explosions were reported in several parts of West Asia, including Jerusalem and Bahrain’s capital, Manama. On Saturday morning, explosion-like sounds were also heard in Dubai, triggering panic across the city.
According to initial reports, flight operations at Dubai Airport were temporarily halted for more than 40 minutes following the incident. Sources said missile debris was found scattered near the airport area, which added to the panic among passengers and airport staff. However, no casualties were reported.
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AFP reported that two explosion sounds were heard in Dubai that morning, after which black smoke was seen rising in the sky. The incident led to widespread fear and speculation that Dubai Airport had been hit by a missile attack. The claim quickly spread across social media platforms and was reported by several outlets.
However, the Dubai Media Office later clarified that the airport was not attacked. Officials said that reports circulating on social media were false. According to authorities, the air defence system had intercepted the missile mid-air. A fragment of the intercepted missile reportedly fell near Dubai Airport, which caused alarm among people.
Missile interception sparks panic in Dubai
It is suspected that the missile may have been launched from Iran, though the Iranian government has not issued any official statement on the matter.
Following the incident, Dubai Airport authorities issued a warning to passengers and staff. The advisory said, “Due to the current situation and the threat of missile attacks, all passengers and airport staff are advised to go to safe shelters inside the terminal.” People were also advised to stay away from windows and avoid open areas.
Meanwhile, international media outlets reported that missile attacks were also carried out in Jerusalem on the same day. Explosions were heard in Bahrain’s capital, Manama, as well, where sirens were sounded, and authorities urged residents to move to safe shelters.
According to Reuters, explosion sounds were also heard near Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi on Thursday night. Following that incident, the United Arab Emirates issued a high alert across the country amid fears of possible missile attacks.
The tensions come after Israel and the United States jointly launched strikes on Iran on February 28. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was reportedly killed in the attack. Since then, Tehran has intensified attacks targeting Israel and American military bases across West Asia.
Reports also indicated that multiple explosion sounds were heard in areas near the Burj Al Arab Hotel, Palm Jumeirah, and close to Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, further increasing tension in the region.
