UAE Joins Global Meeting Over Iran’s Attacks on Gulf

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) took part in an extraordinary meeting of international leaders held via videoconference on 9 March 2026 to discuss Iran’s recent aggression against Gulf countries and the wider region.

The meeting brought together leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Armenia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Türkiye, and the European Union (EU). It was co-chaired by António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

During the meeting, Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the UAE, thanked the participating leaders for their strong support and solidarity during the current crisis.

Sheikh Saif highlighted the resilience of the UAE in defending itself against a massive wave of attacks involving more than 1,700 Iranian missiles and drones. He stressed that the UAE remains fully committed to protecting the safety and security of everyone living in the country despite what he described as unlawful and unprovoked attacks by Iran.

In his remarks, Sheikh Saif said that Iran’s actions represent a serious violation of the UAE’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He noted that such attacks are a clear breach of international law and pose a major threat to both regional and global peace and security.

He also warned that the attacks target the UAE’s model of security, tolerance, and prosperity, which the country has worked to build over many years.

Sheikh Saif explained that the UAE has responded with measured restraint, aiming to avoid further escalation and keep diplomatic solutions open. At the same time, he reaffirmed that the UAE is fully prepared to defend itself and will exercise its right to self-defence when necessary.

He further emphasized the important role of European countries in helping to reduce tensions in the Middle East. According to him, Europe has strong strategic ties with the region and significant interests in the UAE, where more than 510,000 European citizens live, and around 4.8 million visit each year.

In conclusion, Sheikh Saif called for stronger international partnerships, especially in the fields of defense cooperation, maritime security, and trade, to ensure regional stability and support long-term economic growth and prosperity.