UAE reaffirms it took defensive actions to protect sovereignty, civilians

Strongly condemning Iran's "unprovoked" attacks on the UAE, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that all its actions were defensive, aimed at protecting its sovereignty and in line with the country’s legitimate right to safeguard its national security. 

The ministry underscored that the UAE reserves its full sovereign, legal, diplomatic and military rights to address any threat or hostile act, adding that Iran launched nearly 3,000 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones towards the UAE, resulting in civilian casualties, as well as damages to infrastructure. 

It further affirmed that attempts at coercion or the promotion of malicious narratives and allegations will not undermine the UAE’s principled positions, nor deter the country from safeguarding its supreme national interests and upholding its sovereignty and independent decision-making.

The ministry underscored that the UAE continues its close coordination and consultation with member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), alongside regional and international partners, in support of regional security and stability and to further strengthen joint Gulf cooperation.

UAE Reaffirms Firm Commitment to Protecting Its Sovereignty and Supporting Regional Security and Stability pic.twitter.com/ElzptmyjRo

— MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) May 15, 2026