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'Your war is not with neighbours': UAE diplomat calls on Iran to act responsibly
Gargash warned that military action would only complicate the situation and create new challenges the region does not need
- PUBLISHED: Sun 1 Mar 2026, 1:50 PM UPDATED: Sun 1 Mar 2026, 7:45 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid Israeli, US strikes on Iran for the latest regional developments.]
A top UAE diplomat called on Iran to act responsibly as Tehran continues attacks on Gulf countries in retaliation for a US‑Israel joint strike. Dr Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, said on Sunday that Iran’s actions had isolated the country and warned the Islamic Republic not to target its neighbours, saying “Your war is not with your neighbours”.
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He urged Iran to “return to reason”, warning that recent attacks on Gulf states represent a strategic miscalculation. In a post on social media, Gargash said the escalation reinforces concerns about Iran’s role as a source of instability in the region.
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He wrote, “The Iranian aggression against the Gulf states has miscalculated and isolated Iran at a critical juncture. Your war is not with neighbours, and this escalation only confirms the narrative of those who see Iran as the primary source of danger in the region, and its missile program as a constant source of instability.
“Return to reason, to your surroundings, and deal with your neighbours rationally and responsibly before the circle of isolation and escalation widens,” he added.
In an interview with Sky News Arabia on February 28, he said the UAE and its neighbours had spent months trying to prevent events from reaching this stage and remain focused on returning the crisis to negotiations.
Gargash warned that military action would only complicate the situation and create new challenges the region does not need. He added that recent developments risk isolating Iran and rebuilding long-term mistrust with Gulf states.
At the same time, he stressed that Gulf societies are civilian communities not built for conflict, with diverse populations at risk from any spillover. He also reassured residents that the UAE is prepared and urged the public to rely on official information and avoid rumours.
Waad Barakat is a Special Correspondent covering security topics, from law enforcement to local courts. With a keen eye for human interest stories, she hopes to blend it all with unique Gen Z-inspired content.
