15/05/2026
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15/05/2026
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ABU DHABI, May 15: The United Arab Emirates has strongly rejected what it described as attempts by Iran to justify “terrorist attacks” against the UAE and other Gulf countries, issuing a sharp rebuke during a BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi attended by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
UAE Minister of State Khalifa bin Shaheen Al-Marar told the meeting that the UAE categorically rejects “any allegations or threats targeting its sovereignty, national security, or independent decision-making,” according to the Emirates News Agency.
He added that the UAE reserves “full sovereign, legal, diplomatic, and military rights” to respond to any hostile act or threat, stressing that national security remains a red line for Abu Dhabi.
Al-Marar said the UAE had faced sustained attacks during the recent regional conflict, claiming that Emirati air defenses had intercepted thousands of drones and missiles targeting civilian infrastructure and strategic facilities.
He further stated that the UAE does not rely on external protection and is fully capable of deterring what he called “unprovoked aggression.”
The remarks come amid escalating diplomatic tensions between Abu Dhabi and Tehran, with both sides exchanging accusations in recent weeks over regional security incidents and maritime disruptions in the Gulf.
Earlier, Araghchi had accused the UAE of being an “active partner” in military actions against Iran, while also claiming that Iranian strikes had targeted only US military installations in the region.
The diplomatic exchange has contributed to divisions within BRICS discussions, with member states failing to issue a joint statement following the two-day meeting. India noted “differing views” among members on the situation in the West Asia region.
Separately, Gulf states and the United States are reportedly seeking support at the United Nations for a draft Security Council resolution aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, amid concerns over disruptions to energy exports.
UAE officials also described any obstruction of maritime traffic as an “act of piracy,” reiterating that the country remains committed to a political solution to regional tensions.
