Indian among 2 killed as missile debris rains down after mid-air interception in Abu Dhabi

The incident occurred on Sweihan Street after air defence systems successfully neutralised an incoming missile.

However, fragments from the interception rained down on the ground, leading to casualties and damage to property.

According to officials, the deceased included one Indian and one Pakistani national. Among the injured were another Indian, along with individuals of Emirati and Jordanian origin.

Emergency services rushed to the site to assist victims and clear wreckage, which also damaged multiple vehicles.

In a statement posted on X, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said the casualties resulted from falling debris following the “successful interception of a ballistic missile by air defenses.”

The incident underscores the risks associated with high-altitude missile interceptions, where falling fragments can pose a threat to civilians even when defence systems function as intended.

Officials said investigations are ongoing and urged the public to rely only on verified sources for updates.

With this latest incident, the number of Indian nationals killed in the ongoing Middle East conflict has risen to at least seven.

The UAE’s Ministry of Defence said that since the escalation began, its air defence systems have intercepted 372 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,826 unmanned aerial vehicles.

A total of 169 people have been injured so far, with the severity ranging from minor to serious.

The ministry reiterated its readiness to respond to any threats, stating it will “confront” any attempt to undermine the country’s security.