UAE retains right to self-defence but will not join war against Iran

Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation (second from left) during a UAE government media briefing on March 3, 2026. MINISTRY OF INTERIOR

The UAE has reiterated that it will defend its sovereignty but will not participate in military operations against Iran. Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, said the country’s position has been clear from the start. “The UAE’s position has been clear from the beginning: its territory will not be used in any military operation against Iran,” she said during a high-level media briefing on Tuesday (March 3). She stressed that the UAE reserves its full and legitimate right to self-defence. “We do not seek to widen the conflict,” she added, noting that the country does not believe military solutions lead to stable outcomes. Al Hashimy said Iran launched attacks without considering the UAE’s declared stance. She confirmed that the UAE has closed its embassy in Tehran and withdrawn its ambassador. “Our message is clear. The Iranian attacks are unjustified and carry serious consequences,” she said. Despite ongoing tensions, she said vital sectors across the country continue operating normally. At the same briefing, Ministry of Defence spokesman Brig. Staff Pilot Abdulnasir Al Hammad said the UAE continues to intercept threats around the clock and has sufficient munitions stockpiles to sustain operations. Since February 28, more than 1,000 missiles and drones have been launched towards the UAE. Most were intercepted, though debris caused three fatalities and 78 minor injuries as of Wednesday (March 4). On Wednesday, Iran’s judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei was quoted by state media as saying those who aid Iran’s enemies “will be dealt with decisively and severely” under wartime conditions. Regional tensions remain high as the conflict enters its fifth day.