The United Arab Emirates accused Iran of launching two ballistic missiles toward shipping in the Gulf on Tuesday, triggering air defense alerts and a suspension of trade with Tehran. Iran's foreign ministry categorically rejected the allegations.

The United Arab Emirates reported detecting two ballistic missiles fired from Iranian territory toward the country on Tuesday, according to a statement from the UAE ministry. Officials stated that the first missile landed outside UAE territorial waters, while the second fell within them, with both appearing to target maritime navigation in the Gulf region.

Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei firmly denied the accusation, characterizing the UAE's claims as damaging to regional stability and peace efforts. The allegation comes amid escalating tensions, with Iran previously warning that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz—through which UAE shipping must transit to leave the Gulf—would remain closed until a peace agreement with the United States is reached.

The incident prompted the UAE interior ministry to issue a mobile phone alert to residents warning of a potential missile threat and instructing them to seek shelter. The warning was later withdrawn. In response to the reported attack, the UAE suspended all trade and financial dealings with Iran late Tuesday evening. The move marks a significant diplomatic escalation between the two nations.

This incident follows a pattern of rising tensions in the region. Earlier this year, when Middle East hostilities intensified in late February, Iran directed approximately 3,000 missiles and drones at UAE targets—more than any other location in the region. A June memorandum between the two countries had briefly halted attacks on UAE territory, though that agreement has since collapsed. State-owned oil tankers have reportedly come under repeated attack in recent weeks.