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UAE affirms right to defend itself, condemns Iranian aggression
The UAE, drawn into this war between the US, Israel and Iran, reported 4 deaths and 112 minor and moderate injuries since Tehran started retaliatory strikes
- PUBLISHED: Sun 8 Mar 2026, 5:27 PM UPDATED: Sun 8 Mar 2026, 6:53 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid US-Israel-Iran war for the latest regional developments.]
The UAE on Sunday affirmed it is in a state of defence following what it described as “brutal and unprovoked” aggression by Iran, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. The Ministry emphasised it does not seek to be drawn into any conflict or escalation.
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Dragged into this war between the US, Israel and Iran, the UAE reported four deaths and 112 minor and moderate injuries since Tehran started retaliatory strikes on US assets on February 28. However, the strikes have not been limited to US assets. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed Iranian attacks targeted infrastructure and civilian sites. The barrage included more than 1,400 ballistic missiles and drones.
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The UAE described these strikes as a “flagrant violation of international law and the UN Charter,” calling them an infringement on the country’s sovereignty and a direct threat to its security and stability.
While emphasising that the UAE does not seek to be drawn into conflicts or escalations, the statement reaffirmed the nation’s “full right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty, national security, and territorial integrity”.
"Stop aggression and not be dragged into escalation"
Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, Anwar Gargash, reiterated the UAE’s self-defensive stance against Iranian aggression targeting its territories, people, and civilian infrastructure.
He also wrote on X to quash social media speculations and said, “Any defensive measures that the state will take will be public and clear, and will not rely on press leaks or narratives from unknown sources and intentions. Our goal is to stop this ongoing aggression against the UAE and the Arab Gulf states, not to be dragged into escalation.”
The Foreign Ministry also stressed that protecting citizens and safeguarding residents remain top priorities, in line with international law and the UN Charter. The UAE’s statement comes amid escalating regional tensions and follows recent missile and drone attacks that have affected multiple countries in the Gulf region.
"UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh"
Recently, as Iran continues to strike and tensions run high across the region, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan delivered a stern warning to the country’s enemies, saying, “The UAE is attractive; the UAE is beautiful. The UAE is a model. But I say to them: Do not be misled by the UAE’s appearance. The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh – we are no easy prey.” His message was carefully crafted to resonate even in his calm, reassuring tone, sending a clear message to the enemies.
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.