E-Paper
Sign In
UAE needs to know who it can rely on during hardship, says diplomat amid Iran attacks
Dr Anwar Gargash pointed to stark contrasts in international responses, with some countries offering only 'statements without action'
- PUBLISHED: Wed 25 Mar 2026, 11:39 AM
The UAE has demonstrated resilience and clarity in the face of ongoing Iranian aggression. However, top Emirati diplomat Dr Anwar Gargash highlighted the contrast in international responses: From genuine support to mere statements without action.
In a post on social media platform X, Gargash said that since the start of what he described as “brutal Iranian aggression”, friendly nations had reached out, but their positions differed.
Recommended For You
“Some offered sincere support that is appreciated, while others limited themselves to statements without action,” he said.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp channels.
He added that the UAE had proven its ability to confront challenges and remain steadfast, stressing that what matters most in times of crisis is not just resources, but clarity.
“The UAE has shown its capacity to respond and endure. It does not need numbers and equipment as much as it needs clarity of positions and knowing who can be depended on in times of hardship,” Gargash noted.
As of March 24, the UAE has dealt with nearly 2,200 projectiles from Iran.
Regional questions
In an earlier post, Gargash raised questions about the response of regional institutions and major powers as Gulf countries were subjected to this “brutal Iranian aggression”.
He said Gulf countries have the right to question the role of joint Arab and Islamic institutions, including the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
“In this absence and inability, it is no longer appropriate to later speak of a decline in Arab and Islamic roles or criticise the American and Western presence,” he said.
He added that Gulf countries have long stood as partners to others during times of prosperity.
“So, where are you today in times of hardship?”
As Associate Editor, Sahim Salim helps tell the UAE story like no one else does — and leads a team of reporters that asks the questions to get news and headlines that matter.