Smoke rises near the Burj Khalifa in Dubai following an explosion. N. Prabhakaran Dubai: Following Iranian retaliation against U.S. and Isr...
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N. Prabhakaran
Dubai: Following Iranian retaliation against U.S. and Israeli strikes, reports have emerged of an attack near the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, in Dubai. Video footage showing an explosion and smoke rising near the landmark has surfaced. Authorities have cordoned off surrounding roads, preventing access to the area.
Following reports of an Iranian drone spotted near the Burj Khalifa, footage captured from a distance shows plumes of black smoke. It remains unclear whether the skyscraper itself was the intended target or if it has sustained any significant damage.
Dubai has become one of the primary cities facing a severe crisis in the Gulf region after Iran vowed to deliver a "crushing response."
Earlier this evening, an explosion was also reported in Dubai’s renowned Palm Jumeirah area. Footage shows a building on the man-made island on fire, and residents reported hearing several loud blasts following the initial explosion. An eyewitness told the AFP news agency that they saw multiple ambulances rushing to the scene.
The Dubai Media Office confirmed that four people were injured and have been transported for medical treatment. Authorities stated that the fire is now under control. They have requested that residents and tourists remain calm and refrain from circulating footage of the incident on social media.
Presence of Shahed Drones
In another video shared by NEXTA TV, a deadly Shahed drone is seen carrying out an attack. The drone reportedly struck between two buildings in a densely populated area of Dubai, resulting in a large explosion and a fireball. Shahed drones are among the most lethal in Iran's arsenal. It is not yet clear if the same type of drone was involved in the Burj Khalifa incident.
'Operation Epic Fury'
Earlier today, the United States and Israel launched a coordinated strike on Iran titled "Operation Epic Fury," reportedly aimed at the administration of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Several explosions were reported near the offices of the 86-year-old Supreme Leader.
"Lay down your arms or face death," warned U.S. President Donald Trump, justifying the attack as a necessary measure to protect the American people.
Following the strikes, Iran closed its airspace and announced it would respond forcefully. "The armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will respond decisively to the aggressors... just as we were ready for talks, we are now more prepared than ever to protect the Iranian people," Iran's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Following reports of explosions in various parts of Dubai this Saturday, major security concerns led to the precautionary evacuation of the Burj Khalifa. The evacuation took place amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East after Iran launched massive missile attacks targeting U.S. military bases in the region.
Security has been tightened across the UAE due to fears that the conflict between Iran, the U.S., and Israel could spread to neighboring Gulf nations.
Emergency Measures
Authorities evacuated all visitors and staff from the Burj Khalifa as emergency protocols were activated following the nearby explosions. Police have closed all adjacent roads and instructed the public to remain calm as the investigation continues.
Iran claimed it targeted U.S.-linked military infrastructure in the Gulf with missile strikes. Reports indicate that air defense systems were activated and sirens sounded in various parts of the UAE. While there is no official confirmation of direct damage to the Burj Khalifa, the evacuation underscores the gravity of the situation.
The UAE hosts U.S. military assets as part of long-term defense agreements. By targeting centers related to U.S. operations in the Gulf, Iran is sending a strong message, demonstrating its capability to project its retaliation across borders.
Preliminary reports suggest the trajectory of the missiles aligns with areas housing U.S. defense systems. It is reported that air defense systems intercepted multiple projectiles; however, authorities have not yet released detailed information regarding total casualties or the extent of the damage.
The UAE maintains a strategic U.S. military presence to protect maritime trade routes and support regional security. Confirmation of attacks on American bases could lead to further military escalation. In response, the UAE has deployed additional forces to protect critical infrastructure, including ports, airports, and energy centers.
The sounds of explosions in Dubai have caused widespread concern among residents and tourists. Authorities have urged the public to rely only on official information and to avoid spreading unverified reports.
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