UAE defends actions as protecting sovereignty, key assets

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UAE defends actions as protecting sovereignty, key assets

May 16, 2026

ABU DHABI,— The United Arab Emirates said on Saturday that its actions were carried out as part of defensive measures intended to safeguard its sovereignty, civilians, and critical infrastructure, the foreign ministry said in a statement.

The comments came after a report published by The Wall Street Journal on Monday claimed the UAE conducted military operations against Iran in early April.

The UAE foreign ministry statement did not directly address the allegations regarding strikes on Iran.

In its statement, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment to regional security and stability through cooperation with regional and international partners, saying it aims to protect populations in the region from the impact of ongoing conflicts.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly condemned what it described as unprovoked Iranian attacks and threats against the UAE and other countries in the region. It said nearly 3,000 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones were launched toward the UAE, resulting in civilian casualties, injuries, and damage to civilian infrastructure.

The ministry said these actions represented a violation of state sovereignty and posed a threat to regional stability.

The ministry said all UAE measures were taken within its legitimate right to defend national security and preserve stability. It added that the UAE maintains sovereign authority over legal, diplomatic, and military responses to any hostile acts or threats.

It also said efforts involving coercion or what it called false narratives would not influence the country’s positions or its sovereign decision-making.

The UAE also said it continues coordination with Gulf Cooperation Council members and international partners on regional security matters.

(With files from mofa.gov.ae, Reuters)