Missile scare over UAE skies, vessel hit near Sharjah as tensions spiral in Iran conflict

Escalating hostilities linked to the ongoing Iran conflict sent shockwaves across the UAE, with an unidentified projectile striking a vessel near Sharjah and air defense systems springing into action to neutralize incoming threats.

According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a projectile hit a vessel about 15 nautical miles north of Sharjah early March 22. Authorities confirmed that all crew members on board were safe, averting a potential maritime disaster in one of the world’s busiest shipping corridors.

The incident came hours after a dramatic night over the UAE, when a missile alert was triggered in Dubai. Residents witnessed the sky light up as the country’s air defense system intercepted three ballistic missiles and eight drones reportedly launched from Iran.

The UAE Ministry of Defense said that since the conflict began on February 28, 2026, Iran has fired 1,740 drones and 338 ballistic missiles, underlining the scale and persistence of the threat.

Diego Garcia targeted, US defense holds firm

In a parallel escalation, Iran allegedly launched two ballistic missiles targeting the strategic Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal citing US officials. Both missiles failed to reach their target—one malfunctioned mid-air while the other was intercepted by a US warship.

Trump warns of strikes on Iran’s power infrastructure

Amid rising tensions, US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Tehran, threatening sweeping strikes on Iran’s power infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened within 48 hours.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the US would “hit and obliterate” Iran’s power plants, signaling a potential expansion of the conflict with direct consequences for civilian life.

Global push to secure Strait of Hormuz

The UAE has joined 21 countries—including the UK, Germany, France and Japan—in a joint statement aimed at ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil shipments now under increasing threat.

Flights, weather and recovery signals

Despite the tensions, aviation activity is showing cautious signs of recovery. Data from Flightradar24 indicates a gradual improvement in Gulf airline operations, though disruptions persist.

Air India and Air India Express are scheduled to operate 50 flights across the Middle East on March 22, while IndiGo has advised passengers to check flight statuses amid possible delays or cancellations.

Meanwhile, Kuwait Airways announced the resumption of Cairo flights via Dammam starting March 26, with four weekly services planned.

Separately, the UAE National Centre of Meteorology has forecast rain and partly cloudy conditions in parts of the country, even as defence systems remain on high alert to counter ongoing aerial threats.