During the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting held in New Delhi, the UAE affirmed its categorical rejection of what it described as “Iranian terrorist attacks” that targeted its lands and sisterly and friendly countries in the region, stressing that it reserves “all its sovereign, legal, diplomatic and military rights” in the face of any threat.
UAE Minister of State Khalifa bin Shaheen Al Marar said, during the meeting, that his country rejects “the Iranian side’s allegations and attempts to justify Iranian terrorist attacks,” considering that they constitute “a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the principles of good neighborliness.”
He stressed that the UAE rejects “any allegations or threats that affect its sovereignty, national security, or the independence of its decisions,” stressing that “any attempts to pressure, make accusations, or promote malicious allegations will not prevent the state from protecting its highest national interests.”
Al-Marar pointed out that since February 28, 2026, the UAE has been subjected to “repeated and unprovoked Iranian terrorist attacks,” explaining that the UAE’s air defenses have dealt with about 3,000 attacks using ballistic and mobile missiles and drones that targeted civilian facilities and vital infrastructure, including airports, ports, oil facilities, water desalination plants, energy networks, and residential areas.
He added that Iran continued its attacks “despite international and regional condemnations and resolutions,” referring to Security Council Resolution No. 2817 of 2026, and resolutions issued by the Human Rights Council, the International Maritime Organization, and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), as well as resolutions issued by the International Telecommunication Union and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
He stressed that these decisions “reflect an international consensus to reject Iranian attacks,” noting that targeting commercial shipping and closing the Strait of Hormuz “constitute a direct threat to global energy security and the stability of the region.”
Al-Marar stressed that the UAE “does not expect protection from anyone,” and that it is “capable of deterring aggression,” stressing that his country reserves its full and legitimate right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity in accordance with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.
He also held Iran “fully responsible for these attacks and their repercussions,” considering that respecting the sovereignty of states, stopping attacks, and adhering to international law represent “the necessary foundations for any real and sustainable stability.”
