Date: May 16, 2026 l By Jan Porch
The United Arab Emirates has reaffirmed its commitment to defending its sovereignty and supporting regional stability amid continuing tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
In a strongly worded statement issued Saturday, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned what it described as “unprovoked Iranian attacks and threats” targeting the Emirates and other countries across the Gulf region. The ministry stated that Iran had launched nearly 3,000 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones toward the UAE and neighboring states during the recent regional conflict.
According to the UAE government, the attacks caused civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure, while also threatening regional security and violating national sovereignty. Officials stressed that all defensive measures taken by the UAE were intended to protect civilians, critical infrastructure and national security interests.
The statement also rejected what the UAE called “malicious narratives and allegations” aimed at undermining the country’s independent decision-making and foreign policy positions. UAE officials insisted that external pressure or threats would not alter the country’s national interests or strategic policies.
The remarks came one day after UAE Minister of State Khalifa bin Shaheen Al-Marar addressed a BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New Delhi, where he declared that the Emirates was fully capable of defending itself without relying on outside protection. Al-Marar also rejected accusations targeting the UAE’s sovereignty and national security policies.
Regional tensions escalated sharply after the United States and Israel launched a joint military campaign against Iran on Feb. 28, 2026. In response, Iran carried out retaliatory missile and drone strikes against multiple targets across the Gulf region, including attacks involving UAE territory and strategic infrastructure.
Reports on the broader regional conflict indicate that Gulf countries have faced sustained security threats throughout the confrontation, including attacks on ports, airports, energy facilities and shipping routes linked to the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite a ceasefire announced on April 7, sporadic clashes and military incidents have continued across several areas of the Middle East, raising concerns that the fragile truce could collapse. Analysts say Gulf states remain on high alert amid fears of renewed escalation involving Iran and allied regional armed groups.
The UAE has positioned itself as both a security partner to Western allies and a regional diplomatic actor seeking stability. However, the latest statements suggest Abu Dhabi is also determined to project military readiness and independence amid growing geopolitical uncertainty in the Gulf.