The United Arab Emirates has stressed that any agreement to resolve ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran must guarantee free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the waterway cannot be used as leverage in geopolitical disputes.
Senior UAE official Anwar Gargash said the Strait, a vital corridor handling roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments daily, should be treated as a global economic priority rather than a bargaining tool. He emphasized that uninterrupted navigation must form a core part of any settlement.
While supporting an end to hostilities, Gargash cautioned against ceasefires that ignore deeper issues, particularly Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its missile and drone capabilities, which could destabilize the Middle East further. He added that the UAE is prepared to back international efforts, including U.S.-led initiatives, to secure shipping routes in the Strait if necessary.
The conflict escalated after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran following a collapse in nuclear talks, prompting Iran to respond with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, U.S. bases, and key Gulf infrastructure, including ports and energy facilities. The UAE has reportedly faced some of the heaviest attacks but remains resilient, with its economy fundamentally strong, though recovery will require significant effort.
Gargash warned that Iran’s strategy could deepen security cooperation between Gulf states and Washington, further increasing U.S. military presence and Israel’s influence in the region. He noted that while Gulf nations have tried to maintain balance and avoid confrontation, trust remains difficult under current Iranian leadership.
He concluded that the crisis underscores the need for long-term stability measures, cautioning that unresolved tensions could continue to destabilize the region and threaten global energy security.