An Iranian strike today targeted Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, where the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been stationed for years. While there have been no casualties, the air assault caused damage to military infrastructure at the base.
Notably, over 100 Australian personnel are currently stationed at the base. It also hosts the British forces and a small contingent of United States military members.
The facility serves as a critical logistics, surveillance, training, and operational hub for Australian forces in the Middle East.
Statement on strikes on Al Minhad Air Base
On the morning of 18 March 2026 (AEDT), an Iranian strike impacted an area at the Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, where the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has a long‑standing presence.
No ADF personnel were injured in… pic.twitter.com/mNdcfOYgPx
— Defence Australia (@DefenceAust) March 18, 2026
PM confirms no Australians injured
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a statement expressing relief that no Australian personnel were harmed, noting that the projectile struck near the base at approximately 9:15 am AEDT. However, the strike resulted in minor damage to an accommodation block and medical facility in the Australian section of the base.
When questioned on whether the base was being intentionally singled out, Albanese remarked that the “Iranian regime is engaging in random attacks right across the region.” The UAE has faced “heavy bombardment” throughout the current hostilities.
The Australian Government’s Department of Defence also confirmed that “no ADF personnel were injured in the incident, and all ADF personnel deployed to the Middle East are safe and accounted for.”
“Defence’s focus is on ensuring the safety and security of our people, and we will continue to revise force protection measures as the situation evolves,” the department stated.
Australia warns ‘Iran is no friend of Australia’
Responding to the incident, Shadow Defence Minister James Paterson issued a strong warning that the “attack on Australian facilities at Al Minhad is another reminder that the Islamic Republic regime in Iran is no friend of Australia.”
He also reaffirmed support for deploying surveillance assets such as the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail to assist regional partners, like the UAE.
Second Strike on the Base During Ongoing Conflict
This marks the second time Al Minhad Air Base has been targeted during the current conflict. A previous Iranian drone strike in the early days of hostilities did not result in damage to Australian facilities.
As tensions continue to escalate across the region, Australian authorities are under increasing pressure to ensure adequate resources and protection for deployed forces.