David Lavery and his wife Junping check in from Dubai in the Middle East
A Perth, Ontario resident living in Dubai says he and his wife are safe despite Iranian rockets and drones being fired toward the United Arab Emirates in recent days.
Dave Lavery, who now lives in Dubai with his wife Junping, spoke with LanarkLeedsToday.ca about what it’s like to watch the unfolding situation from inside the region.
He said the couple is safe but acknowledged the situation remains serious.
Lavery has spent years working in Afghanistan in private security. Over the years he has helped evacuate thousands from war-torn areas of crisis.
Lavery says the UAE has faced waves of missiles and drones, but most have been intercepted by the country’s air defence systems.
At times, he says, residents can see the defence systems at work directly above the city.
Despite the tension, daily life in Dubai continues. Lavery says he and Junping even marked International Women’s Day on Sunday with breakfast — though the moment was interrupted by emergency alerts.
Anyone familiar with Lavery’s story know his experience can help others.
His advice to Canadians with family in the Middle East is that they stay connected and informed.
He also urges Canadians not to rely on unverified social media videos when trying to understand what is happening. Instead he says, look for verified sources that can provide proof of location and time period when reports are aired.
For now, Lavery says the focus remains on staying prepared, staying informed and supporting others in the region as tensions continue.
He says he still hopes to return to Perth in the coming weeks if travel conditions allow.