UAE air defences intercept Iranian missiles and drones

A drone strike hit the US embassy in Baghdad early Wednesday, with an explosion reported in the area, according to security sources. The attack comes a day after multiple rocket and drone strikes targeted the embassy and a nearby US diplomatic facility.

Security sources said at least three explosive drones targeted a US diplomatic site near Baghdad International Airport, triggering C-RAM air defense systems.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Tuesday.

Rubio expressed condolences for those killed in Iran’s indiscriminate attacks on the UAE and reaffirmed America’s commitment to the Emirates’ security, State Department readout said.

The IRGC targeted Iran national team striker Sardar Azmoun after he posted images with UAE leaders Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, warning of prosecution and potential asset seizure.

Azmoun shared a photo of himself with the UAE rulers on Instagram, writing: “Meeting one of the most successful minds in the world was a pleasure and an honor.”

The IRGC Telegram post framed the visit as collaboration with Iran’s enemies and called for legal action against the player, saying Azmoon remained silent on US and Israeli attacks in the region.

Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday Israeli forces struck targets across Iran and killed two senior officials, telling Iranians to celebrate Nowruz while warning Israel is “watching from above.”

"Our aircraft are hitting the terror operatives on the grounds, in the crossroads, in the city squares. This is meant to enable the brave people of Iran to celebrate the Festival of Fire. So celebrate and Happy Nowruz. We're watching from above," Netanyahu said.

Donald Trump said on Tuesday the United States is “knocking them for a loop” and added Iran now understands it cannot obtain a nuclear weapon, praising the strength of the US military and commending service members for their role in ongoing operations.

“We’re knocking them for a loop. They cannot have a nuclear weapon, and they now understand that very strongly. We have a great country and the most powerful military in the world. I rebuilt it in my first term, and I didn’t expect to have to use it so much in my second. The men and women of our military have my highest respect and admiration," Trump said at the White House.