Iranian Missile Strike on UAE Air Base Destroys Australian Facilities

Missile Strike Near UAE Base Leaves Australian Troops Unscathed

An Iranian missile struck close to the Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), resulting in damage to a facility that houses Australian military personnel. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed on Wednesday that there were no injuries from the incident.

Speaking to reporters in Tasmania, Albanese noted that Iranian projectiles had hit near the base and reassured that “no Australian personnel were injured; everyone is completely safe right now.”

“A small fire broke out from the missile landing on the road leading to the base, causing minor damage to the accommodation and medical facilities,” Albanese added.

According to Australian news sources, the UAE-operated Al Minhad base currently accommodates more than 100 Australian military personnel, alongside British and American troops.

Since 2003, Australia has utilized the base as a key military, logistics, surveillance, and training center in the Middle East, though its presence has diminished following the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.

“I’ve visited the base multiple times and talked to Australian Defense Force personnel,” Albanese remarked. “The men and women who wear our uniform with pride truly do a remarkable job for our country.”

A statement from the Australian Department of Defense confirmed that no Australian Defense Force members were harmed during the incident and affirmed that all personnel stationed in the Middle East are safe.

“The strike caused minor damage to the barracks and medical facilities in the Australian section of the base,” the statement indicated.

Furthermore, the statement noted that “defense authorities are committed to the safety and security of our personnel and will continuously assess protective measures in response to the evolving situation in the Middle East.”

As reported by Australian broadcaster ABC News, a Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail early warning aircraft, which had been deployed to the Middle East last week, was not present at Al Minhad when the missile hit.

“The safety and security of those who bravely serve in our military is always our priority, and I want to assure the public that no Australians were injured,” Defense Minister Richard Marles commented, per ABC News.

Albanese further stated, “The Iranian regime is conducting indiscriminate attacks across the region, and we are well aware of that.” However, he couldn’t confirm whether Iran had specifically targeted the base and reiterated that Australia is not at war. The Al Minhad base had previously endured a drone strike earlier this month, with no reported injuries to Australian troops.