15/05/2026
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15/05/2026
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NEW DELHI, May 15: Tensions between Iran and the United Arab Emirates have escalated after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the UAE of “direct involvement” in military operations against Tehran during the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, claims the UAE has strongly rejected in previous statements.
Araghchi said in his remarks at the BRICS gathering that while he avoided naming the UAE in his official speech to preserve unity, he believed Abu Dhabi had played a direct role in what he described as “aggression against Iran.”
In a later post on his Telegram channel, Araghchi alleged that the UAE “allowed its territory to be used for firing artillery and deploying equipment against us,” and criticized Abu Dhabi for not condemning the outbreak of hostilities.
He also referred to reports of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visiting the UAE during the conflict, suggesting possible coordination, though he did not provide evidence for the claim.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has previously dismissed reports of any unannounced visit by Netanyahu or hosting of an Israeli military delegation, calling such claims “baseless.” Earlier media reports, including from The Wall Street Journal, had alleged covert regional military activity, which Abu Dhabi has not formally addressed in detail.
The remarks come amid reported disagreements among BRICS members over issuing a joint statement on the wider conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. According to reports, the UAE’s participation in the discussions has contributed to diplomatic friction within the bloc.
Araghchi further warned that “neither U.S. bases nor an alliance with Israel will bring security to the UAE,” urging Abu Dhabi to reassess its regional policies.
Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the UAE as part of a multi-nation diplomatic tour, where he was received by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi.
Modi was given an official welcome ceremony, including a guard of honour and aerial escort by UAE military aircraft as his plane entered Emirati airspace.
Modi also described the UAE as a “second home,” saying the sentiment held deep personal meaning and reflected the strong emotional and diplomatic bond between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan later held delegation-level talks in Abu Dhabi, focusing on broadening strategic cooperation and reviewing ongoing joint initiatives.
During the discussions, Modi also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability in the region and strongly condemned any targeting of the UAE amid ongoing regional tensions.