UAE Urges Iran to Reconsider Its Aggressive Stance Amid Rising Tensions
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Abu Dhabi, March 1 (NationPress) The United Arab Emirates (UAE) issued a strong warning to Iran on Sunday, urging the nation to "reassess its approach" and engage with its neighboring countries in a manner that is reasonable and responsible before the "cycle of isolation and escalation deepens".
Anwar Gargash, the senior diplomatic advisor to President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, commented that Iran's recent aggression against Gulf states has backfired, further isolating Tehran during this crucial period.
Gargash emphasized that Iran's actions solidify the viewpoint of those who regard Iran as the "main source of threat", with its missile program representing a continuous danger to stability.
"Iran's hostility towards its Gulf neighbors has not only missed its aim but has also resulted in Iran's isolation at a pivotal time. Your conflict is not with your neighbors, and through this escalation, you reinforce the belief that Iran is the region's primary danger, and its missile program is a lasting threat to stability," Anwar Gargash stated on X.
He further urged, "Reassess your approach, consider your surroundings, and interact with your neighbors with wisdom and accountability before the cycle of isolation and escalation intensifies."
With ongoing tensions in West Asia, Abu Dhabi has reported successful interception of Iranian missiles and drones over UAE territory, with debris causing injuries to two individuals in Dubai.
The Government of Dubai Media Office confirmed via X that "debris from intercepted drones fell into the yards of two residences in Dubai, resulting in injuries to two people, who have since received medical assistance." Authorities clarified that sounds heard across the emirate were a result of successful interception efforts.
Earlier that day, the UAE's Ministry of Defence announced that its Air Force and Air Defence Forces had effectively intercepted and neutralized 137 ballistic missiles and 209 drones aimed at the country since the onset of Iranian hostilities.
"Since the beginning of the attack, 137 Iranian ballistic missiles were detected, with 132 intercepted and five falling into the sea. Additionally, 209 Iranian drones were identified, 195 of which were intercepted, while 14 landed within the nation’s territories and waters, causing some collateral damage," the ministry stated.
The Ministry also noted that as a result of effective interception strategies, debris fell in various locations, leading to minor damage to some civilian properties. The ministry confirmed that authorities were on high alert and took necessary actions to ensure the safety and security of residents in affected areas.
The UAE's Ministry of Defence condemned the attacks, labeling them as a "dangerous escalation and cowardly acts" that threaten public safety and undermine stability.
It highlighted that these attacks represent a blatant violation of national sovereignty and international law. It urged the public to rely on official information sources in the UAE, avoiding the spread of rumors or unverified claims.
The ministry reassured that it remains vigilant and prepared to address any threats, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors.
On Saturday, Gargash reiterated that the UAE has taken extensive measures to prevent conflict, stressing the potential dangers it poses to regional stability. He stated that the UAE prioritizes the security, stability, and safety of its territory and all individuals residing within it.
"The UAE has made significant and genuine efforts to prevent warfare and has cautioned against its threats to regional stability. Today, as we denounce these brazen assaults, our internal systems are functioning with maximum readiness and efficiency to defend our homeland and society," Gargash concluded on X.
"Our priorities are the UAE: its stability and security, the safety of its territory, and the well-being of everyone who lives on it," he affirmed.