DNA
Abu Dhabi, UAE – April 16, 2026 — The United Arab Emirates has released a detailed position paper outlining its firm stance against Iran’s ongoing missile and drone campaign, which has targeted multiple countries in the region since late February, causing significant casualties, infrastructure damage, and threats to global energy security.
According to the document, Iran has launched more than 2,819 missile and drone attacks on UAE territory alone — far exceeding strikes on other affected nations. These include 2,256 drones, 26 cruise missiles, and 537 ballistic missiles. The assaults have hit civilian sites, airports, ports, oil facilities, tourism infrastructure, water desalination plants, and residential buildings.
The attacks have resulted in the deaths of two UAE Armed Forces members, one civilian contractor, and 10 civilians, with 224 injuries reported across multiple nationalities. Debris from intercepted projectiles has also caused additional property damage. The UAE Consulate General in Kurdistan, Iraq, was separately struck by two drones, injuring two security personnel.
The UAE described the strikes as “unprovoked terrorist attacks” that constitute a flagrant violation of international law, particularly through the targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure, as well as threats to international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.“
The targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and threats to international maritime passages represent a flagrant violation of international law, which cannot be justified or condoned,” the statement reads. The UAE affirmed its right to self-defense under international law and its commitment to taking all necessary measures — individually or collectively — to protect its sovereignty and people. Iran will be held fully liable for damages, injuries, and reparations, it added.
Despite this consensus, the UAE expressed disappointment over the UN Security Council’s inability to adopt a stronger resolution on freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The document stresses that Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz — a chokepoint carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil, significant shares of natural gas, petrochemicals, and fertilizers — amount to “economic warfare and piracy.” Oil prices have surged more than 35% during the crisis, threatening global supply chains. Disruptions risk food shortages for up to 300 million people and affect critical materials for semiconductors and aviation fuel.
The UAE is seeking clarification on the recent two-week ceasefire announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, insisting on Iran’s full, immediate, and unconditional commitment to ending hostilities and reopening the Strait. A “simple ceasefire” is insufficient; a comprehensive solution must address Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missiles, drones, proxies, and maritime threats.
Despite the attacks, the UAE reaffirmed the strength of its diversified economy: Non-oil sectors now account for 75% of GDP, sovereign wealth funds hold approximately USD 2.49 trillion, and strategic food reserves last 4–6 months. Dubai announced AED 1 billion in economic support measures, while the Central Bank of the UAE introduced a resilience package for financial institutions.
The UAE urged the international community to move beyond statements to concrete action, including measures to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and hold Iran accountable. “The Iranian regime has transformed the region from a bridge for cooperation and development into a platform for aggression against its neighbors,” the statement concluded.
This position reflects the UAE’s dual commitment to robust self-defense and multilateral diplomacy to restore regional stability and protect global economic interests.
