SYDNEY: An Iranian projectile struck near Australia’s key military installation in the United Arab Emirates, causing minor damage but no injuries, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed on Wednesday.
The projectile landed close to Al Minhad Air Base—Australia’s primary operational hub in the Middle East—at approximately 9:15 a.m.
Sydney time (2215 GMT Tuesday). Despite the proximity of the strike, Albanese reassured that all Australian personnel stationed at the facility remain safe.
“I can confirm that no Australian personnel were injured, and everyone is secure,” the prime minister said while addressing reporters.
According to officials, the impact caused limited structural damage, affecting an accommodation block and a nearby medical facility within the base perimeter. No disruption to operations has been reported so far.
Located about 24 kilometers south of Dubai, Al Minhad Air Base has been a strategic center for Australian military deployments in the region since 2003. The facility typically hosts up to 80 Australian personnel, supporting missions across the Middle East.
This marks the second reported incident involving the base in recent weeks. It was previously targeted by an Iranian drone following the February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Tehran, which triggered a broader wave of retaliatory actions by Iran.
Since then, the conflict has expanded significantly, with Iran launching a series of drone and missile attacks across Gulf nations—many of which host US military assets.
Regional authorities report that over 2,000 aerial projectiles have been directed at a wide range of targets, including military bases, diplomatic facilities, energy infrastructure, ports, and civilian areas, according to AFP.
The United Arab Emirates has borne a significant portion of these attacks, underscoring its strategic importance and vulnerability amid the escalating crisis.
As tensions continue to rise, concerns are mounting over the safety of foreign military personnel and the stability of key infrastructure across the Gulf.
Diplomatic efforts to contain the conflict remain ongoing, though prospects for immediate de-escalation appear uncertain.
