An Eastern Ontario resident living in Dubai says he and his wife are safe despite Iranian rockets and drones being fired toward the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in recent days.
Dave Lavery, originally from Eastern Ontario, now lives in Dubai with his wife Junping. He spoke with us about what it has been like watching the situation unfold from inside the region.
Laver says while tensions are high, the couple is doing well.
Lavery has spent years working in private security and crisis zones, including Afghanistan, helping evacuate thousands of civilians during conflicts and emergencies.
He says the UAE has faced waves of missiles and drones in recent days, but most have been intercepted by the country’s air defence systems.
At times, he says, residents have been able to see those defence systems intercepting threats in the skies above Dubai.
Despite the tension, daily life continues for many people in the city. Lavery says he and Junping marked International Women’s Day on Sunday with breakfast, though the moment was briefly interrupted by emergency alerts.
Because of his experience in international crisis zones, Lavery says Canadians with loved ones in the Middle East should stay connected and informed.
He also urges Canadians not to rely on unverified social media videos when trying to understand what is happening, and instead asks trusted sources be sourced that can confirm the time and location of reports.
For now, Lavery says the focus remains on preparation, staying informed and helping others navigate the situation as tensions continue.
He says he still hopes to return to his home in Perth in the coming weeks if travel conditions allow.
(Written by: Bob Perreault)