UAE Warns Iran to Stop Attacks as Abu Dhabi Says It Is Ready to Defend Itself
The United Arab Emirates has issued a strong warning to Iran, urging Tehran to immediately stop its attacks and de-escalate the crisis, while stressing that Abu Dhabi is fully prepared to defend itself if the violence continues.
In a statement released on Saturday, UAE officials said the country had so far exercised restraint but would not hesitate to take action to protect its people, infrastructure and sovereignty. “We are prepared to defend ourselves. We hope it doesn’t come to it,” the statement said, reflecting rising concern after a series of missile and drone incidents across the Gulf.
The warning comes amid intensifying hostilities following recent military actions involving United States and Israel against Iranian targets, and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation against U.S. interests and allied states in the region. Several Gulf countries, including the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain, have reported intercepted missiles and falling debris in recent days.
UAE authorities said that while most incoming projectiles had been intercepted by air defence systems, some debris had caused damage to civilian areas and transport hubs. The government described the situation as “extremely serious” and warned that continued attacks risk dragging the entire region into a wider conflict.
Senior Emirati officials called on Iran to respect international law and avoid targeting or endangering civilian populations. “Our position is clear: any threat to our people or our cities will be met with appropriate measures,” a government source said.
The UAE, which hosts foreign military forces and key commercial facilities, has raised its security posture nationwide. Airports, ports and energy installations have been placed on high alert, while airspace restrictions have been imposed intermittently as a precaution against further attacks.
Diplomatic sources said Abu Dhabi had communicated its position to regional partners and international allies, urging coordinated efforts to pressure Iran into halting its strikes. The UAE also reiterated its support for diplomatic solutions, saying it prefers dialogue over confrontation but will not remain passive in the face of danger.
Iran, for its part, has accused the United States and Israel of provoking the current crisis and has warned Gulf states against allowing their territory to be used for military action against Tehran. Iranian officials have repeatedly said they consider American bases in the region legitimate targets if attacks on Iran continue.
Security analysts say the UAE’s statement represents one of its clearest public warnings since the latest round of fighting began. “This shows how concerned the Gulf states are becoming,” one analyst said. “They don’t want to be drawn into a war, but they are also making it clear they will defend themselves.”
The situation has already had significant economic and social effects. Airlines have suspended or rerouted flights, shipping routes have been disrupted, and residents in some areas have been advised to remain indoors during missile alerts. Financial markets in the Gulf have also reacted nervously to the escalating tension.
International reaction has focused on preventing further escalation. European leaders and the United Nations have urged restraint, warning that a regional war could have devastating consequences for global energy supplies and civilian populations. The UN Secretary-General called on all sides to avoid actions that could widen the conflict and to return to diplomatic channels.
Inside the UAE, the government sought to reassure citizens and residents that security forces are capable of handling any threat. Officials praised the performance of air defence systems and emergency services, saying response times had been swift and effective.
Despite the tough tone, the UAE said it remains committed to peace and stability. “We hope it does not come to military confrontation,” the statement added. “Our priority is the safety of our people and the stability of the region.”
As tensions remain high, observers say the coming days will be critical in determining whether the crisis moves toward de-escalation or further conflict. For now, the UAE’s message to Iran is clear: stop the attacks, or risk a stronger response from a country that says it is ready to defend itself.
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