UAE reports drone and missile attack as Iran war ceasefire is challenged

The fragile ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. faced renewed strain on Friday after the United Arab Emirates reported a missile and drone attack. Hours earlier, the U.S. military said it intercepted Iranian attacks on three Navy ships in the Strait of Hormuz and struck Iranian military facilities responsible for the assaults. No ships were hit, and the U.S. stated it does not seek escalation but remains prepared to defend its forces. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei confirmed Tehran is reviewing U.S. proposals through Pakistan’s mediation but has not yet responded. The Islamic Republic’s state TV reported no final decision has been made. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump reiterated threats of further military action if Iran rejects a deal allowing resumed oil and gas shipments disrupted by the conflict. He told reporters a potential agreement 'could happen any day' but acknowledged it 'might not.' The ceasefire, in place since April 8, has been tested by recent violence, including Thursday’s exchange of fire. Earlier talks in Pakistan failed to end the war, which began on February 28 after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. The UAE’s defense ministry warned residents to avoid debris from intercepted missiles, while Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized ongoing efforts to broker peace. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tahir Andrabi expressed hope for a 'peaceful and sustainable solution' but declined to set a timeline. Direct talks between Israel and Lebanon, involving Hezbollah, were also mentioned as part of broader regional tensions. The U.S. military’s Central Command confirmed its actions were in self-defense, underscoring the volatile situation in the Strait of Hormuz.