UAE: ‘We Won’t Back Down to Iran’s Bullying Tactics’

UAE Faces Unprecedented Attacks, Vows Strong Response to Iran

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been subjected to a significant and escalating series of attacks over the past 10 days, with over 1,800 projectiles reportedly aimed at the nation and other Gulf countries, including Jordan. In a firm stance against what it terms “disgusting illegal onslaught” by Iran, the UAE has asserted its determination not to yield to what it describes as Iranian bullying and aggression. Despite the intensity of the attacks, which have targeted civilian infrastructure, the UAE reports successful interception of all projectiles, maintaining a sense of normalcy for its residents and a resilient economy.

Scale of the Onslaught and UAE’s Defense Capabilities

A UAE minister detailed the gravity of the situation, stating, “Over 1800 projectiles aimed at the UAE that have been mostly intercepted by our fantastic UAE armed defense forces with partners from around the world.” The minister emphasized that these attacks were “unacceptable,” “illegal,” and “shockingly aimed at civilian infrastructure,” including hotels and airports. Despite the deliberate targeting, the UAE has showcased its robust defense capabilities and the resilience of its community and leadership. Life in Dubai, for instance, is described as “pretty normal,” with residents back at work and children attending online school, demonstrating the nation’s adaptability and resolve.

Diplomatic Efforts Preceded Escalation

The UAE leadership stated at the outset of the recent escalation that it did not desire war or regional conflict. Prior to these attacks, the UAE was actively engaged in diplomatic efforts aimed at encouraging Iran to negotiate with the United States. The minister confirmed a visit to Iran in early February to convey messages related to political consultations, economic partnerships, and agreements. These discussions were intended to address long-standing regional concerns, including Iran’s nuclear program, its ballistic missile weapons program, and its support for non-state actors. The recent attacks, however, have, in the UAE’s view, definitively proven that Iran cannot safely coexist with its regional neighbors or the international community while maintaining such a weapons program.

“I think the last 14 days have proven definitively that there is no world where Iran can safely coexist with its regional neighborhood or the international community with such a ballistic missile weapons program.”

UN Security Council Condemnation and Economic Warfare

The international community has responded strongly, with the UN Security Council issuing a resounding rebuke of Iran’s behavior. The council has called for Iran to cease its “unlawful and egregious attacks” on the region and to ensure the unimpeded freedom of maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE views Iran’s actions, including potential mine-laying in the Strait, as economic warfare that impacts not only the region but the global economy. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical artery for global energy supplies, food production components, minerals, and petrochemicals. The minister highlighted that Iran’s actions constitute “economic warfare that doesn’t just impact the region, it’s economic warfare that impacts the global economy.”

Impact on Global Economy and Energy Markets

The disruption of the Strait of Hormuz has significant global economic repercussions. The waterway accounts for one-fifth of the world’s energy supplies. The minister warned that Iran’s actions could lead to increased petrol prices, higher grocery bills, and a general rise in the cost of living worldwide, affecting even the most impoverished countries. This has led the UN Security Council to deem the situation an issue of “international peace and security” that must be stopped. While acknowledging the challenges to energy supply, the UAE has demonstrated remarkable economic resilience, committing to continue supplying global energy markets through reassessments of safe transit routes. The quickest way to restore supply stability, according to the UAE, is to enforce UN Security Council Resolution 2817.

UAE’s Resilience and Call for Responsible State Behavior

The UAE asserts that it is “strong” and “no easy prey.” The minister urged Iran to reconsider its course of action, noting that Iran is currently isolated on the international stage. A record 136 countries co-sponsored a UN Security Council resolution condemning Iran’s actions, and the EU has expressed full backing for the resolution’s enforcement. The world, the minister stated, is united against Iran’s economic warfare and unlawful military attacks. The UAE believes it will overcome this challenge and prosper, while questioning the future for Iran if it does not choose a different path. The nation’s GDP is 78% non-oil, with 5.1% growth last year, underscoring its diversified economy.

Message to Iran: Adhere to UN Resolution

Responding to a question about US President Trump’s strong rhetoric, the UAE minister acknowledged his unique messaging style but reiterated the core message to Iran: “UN Security Council Resolution 2817. Listen to it, read it, abide by it.” The minister stressed that the resolution is binding on Iran and called for an immediate cessation of attacks. The UAE, along with regional partners, is committed to mediating a diplomatic solution and will “fully and assertively defend our country, our people, and more than that, the model that you are trying to attack in this region – a model of coexistence, of prosperity, of tolerance.” The UAE expressed respect for the Iranian people and their potential but insisted on responsible state behavior.

Future Outlook: Diplomacy Hinges on De-escalation

The UAE maintains its commitment to a diplomatic pathway forward, but this hinges on Iran ceasing its illegal attacks. The nation is prepared to defend its interests and the regional model of coexistence and prosperity. The international community has clearly defined Iran’s current stance as that of a “rogue actor.” The UAE’s message to the Iranian regime is clear: this is not a moment for diplomacy to acquiesce to demands. The UAE will not respond to bullying by backing down, but remains open to diplomatic engagement once Iran desists from its aggressive actions.

Source: UAE minister to Iran: ‘We will not respond to bullying by backing down’ (YouTube)