The situation surrounding Ras Al Khaimah has escalated significantly, with recent declarations suggesting that the emirate could soon become a military target. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard has issued a warning to citizens and residents of the city, urging them to evacuate immediately due to fears that it may transform into a potential military objective in the very near future.
In an official statement, the Revolutionary Guard noted that the alert stems from the ongoing use of the region in operations against the UAE-occupied islands of Abu Musa and Greater Tunb, which have been under Iranian control since 1971. The Guard emphasized that the responsibility lies with the UAE authorities, attributing the tensions to a “path of dependency and externally imposed decisions.” The statement called on residents to leave the emirate through designated routes.
Further amplifying the threat, a spokesperson from Iran’s “Khatam al-Anbia” headquarters remarked that any continued aggression from UAE territory towards these islands would likely result in military strikes on Ras Al Khaimah. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi also underscored that American attacks on Iran have originated from areas in proximity to Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai, promising a response while aiming to avoid civilian casualties. Araqchi asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to navigation, except for vessels belonging to “Iran’s enemies and their allies.” He confirmed that Iran currently does not discuss a ceasefire, emphasizing instead its commitment to staunchly defending its territory.
This alarming warning comes during a time when UAE air defenses successfully intercepted four ballistic missiles and 25 drones launched from Iran, as part of what the UAE describes as “ongoing Iranian aggression against Gulf nations.” The UAE Ministry of Defense reported that the total count of assaults since the escalation began has reached 345 ballistic missiles, 1,773 drones, and 15 cruise missiles. The defense systems have effectively countered these threats, maintaining readiness to confront any dangers that may arise.
A statement from the ministry indicated that the attacks have resulted in the martyrdom of two Emirati military personnel, the deaths of six civilians from various nationalities, and injuries to 160 others, alongside substantial material damage to civilian infrastructure and essential facilities. As tensions rise, the prospect that Ras Al Khaimah may soon become a potential military target looms larger on the horizon, highlighting the delicate balance of security in the Gulf region.