UAE warns of possible action if Iran attacks continue
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — The United Arab Emirates may take stronger measures, including the possibility of military action, if Iran continues launching missiles and drones toward its territory, the country’s minister of state for international cooperation said in a televised interview.
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Reem Al-Hashimi told CNN the UAE is prepared to defend itself against what she described as an ongoing threat, signaling a sharpened posture should the attacks persist.
“We are ready to defend ourselves. We hope it does not come to that, but we will not sit idle while we continue to be the target of such a wave of attacks,” Al-Hashimi said.
Pressed on whether that readiness includes the use of force, Al-Hashimi did not rule it out. “If it comes to that, it comes to that,” she said.
Minister signals readiness to ‘defend ourselves’
The minister did not outline specific steps the UAE might take, but her remarks amounted to one of the clearest public warnings from Abu Dhabi that it could respond more assertively if the launches continue. She framed the Emirati position as defensive and cautioned that the responsibility to de-escalate lies with Tehran.
“Right now, the ball is in Iran’s court — how they choose to behave toward a neighbor that has traditionally been very fair and cooperative,” Al-Hashimi said, urging restraint from Iran toward a country she characterized as historically collaborative.
Possible escalation hinges on Tehran, UAE says
The comments underscore mounting concern in the UAE over missiles and drones directed at its territory and reflect a tightening of public language as officials confront what Al-Hashimi called a “wave of attacks.” While expressing hope that confrontation can be avoided, she emphasized that Abu Dhabi would not remain passive if threats continue.
Al-Hashimi’s remarks did not include a timeline for potential action, nor did she elaborate on any diplomatic steps underway. However, by placing the onus on Tehran to recalibrate its approach, the UAE signaled that further escalation could be avoided if the launches cease.
Key points from Al-Hashimi’s interview
- The UAE says it is prepared to defend itself against continued missile and drone launches it attributes to Iran.
- Asked about military action, Al-Hashimi said, “If it comes to that, it comes to that,” leaving the option on the table.
- The minister urged Iran to show restraint, saying the “ball is in Iran’s court.”
- She described the UAE as a historically “fair and cooperative” neighbor and said Abu Dhabi hopes confrontation can be avoided.
Al-Hashimi’s interview points to a pivotal moment for the Gulf state’s security posture: one that balances open calls for restraint with a clear warning that continued attacks could meet a more forceful response.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
