UAE under attack from second day of Iranian drone and missile attack as Trump warns regime to ‘wave white flag of surrender’

Iran has launched a second consecutive day of missile and drone attacks on the United Arab Emirates, escalating tensions in the region as the United States pushes ahead with its maritime operation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The UAE’s defence ministry confirmed ongoing interceptions, saying: “The UAE’s air defences are currently engaging with missile and drone attacks originating from Iran.”

It added that “Air Defence systems are actively engaging with missiles and UAV threats,” while urging residents to “remain in a safe location.” The renewed strikes follow a barrage the previous day, which raised fears that a fragile pause in fighting could collapse entirely.

US President Donald Trump reacted strongly, calling on Iran to back down. “Iran… should wave the white flag of surrender,” he said, adding: “They play games, but… they want to make a deal. And who wouldn’t, when your military is totally gone?”

The escalation comes as the US implements “Project Freedom,” a military effort aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. As part of the operation, US naval forces have reportedly destroyed Iranian vessels and begun escorting stranded commercial ships through the waterway.

Despite the rising hostilities, US officials insist a ceasefire framework is still technically in place. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said: “No, the ceasefire is not over. This is a separate and distinct project,” while urging Iran to act cautiously. “Right now, the ceasefire holds,” he added.

Trump, however, declined to clearly confirm the status of the truce, saying: “If I answered that question, you’d say this man is not smart enough to be president.” He also warned of severe consequences if US forces are targeted. “Iran would be blown off the face of the Earth” if it attacks US vessels, he said.

The latest wave of attacks has already caused damage in the UAE, including fires at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone and incidents involving commercial vessels near Dubai.

The UAE’s foreign ministry condemned the strikes, describing them as “a dangerous escalation, an unacceptable action, and a direct threat to the country’s security and stability.”