Iranian drones struck a naval base in Abu Dhabi hosting French forces, causing a fire but no casualties, in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. France announces an enhancement of its military posture in the Gulf to protect its interests. European countries express consternation over Iran's attacks on uninvolved third parties.
On March 1, 2026, the UAE Defense Ministry reported that an attack by two Iranian drones targeted the Al Salam naval base in Abu Dhabi, causing a fire in two equipment containers but no casualties. This base, also known as Camp de la Paix, hosts French forces at the invitation of the United Arab Emirates. The attack is part of Iran's retaliation to US and Israeli strikes launched the previous Saturday against Iran, which resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and several high-ranking officials.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced Sunday evening that France will enhance its military 'posture' in the Middle East to protect its nationals, bases, and support regional countries targeted by Iran. 'All this leads us to enhance our posture and defensive support to stand by those with whom we have defense treaties,' Macron stated at a defense council at the Élysée Palace, the second in two days. He mentioned a possible increase in deployed military resources and preparations to repatriate French nationals once airspaces reopen.
Meanwhile, the leaders of France, Germany, and the UK, grouped as the E3, stated they are ready for 'necessary and proportionate defensive actions' to 'destroy at the source' Tehran's military capabilities. 'We will take measures to defend our interests and those of our allies in the region,' they warned in a joint statement, expressing consternation over Iran's 'blind and disproportionate' attacks on uninvolved countries. The European Union will reinforce its Aspides military mission in the Red Sea with two additional French ships.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran sets 'no limits' to its right to defend itself, describing US actions as an 'act of aggression.' Washington reported the deaths of three American soldiers in the initial operation.
