UAE says no coexistence with Iranian regime: minister

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UAE says no coexistence with Iranian regime: minister al Marar

March 31, 2026

DUBAI,— The United Arab Emirates called for strong action against Iran after repeated attacks targeting Arab countries, warning that coexistence with the Iranian regime is no longer possible, according to the UAE’s Foreign Ministry.

The statements came during the Arab League Council of Ministers’ 165th regular session, held via video conference on March 29, 2026, chaired by the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The UAE, which led the previous session, formally handed over the chairmanship to Bahrain and highlighted ongoing Iranian aggression.

Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, UAE Minister of State, led the UAE delegation and described the current period as a critical stage for Arab unity.

He said the February 28, 2026, attacks marked a dangerous turning point, with Iran carrying out terrorist attacks on multiple Arab countries, creating broader regional and international risks.

Al-Marar detailed Iran’s use of ballistic missiles and suicide drones, striking civilian areas and vital infrastructure including ports, airports, shopping centers, energy and water facilities, communication centers, and diplomatic missions.

He called these acts “terrorist” aggression, illegal, and a serious violation of sovereignty, international law, and the UN Charter.

“Iran’s terrorist aggression is unjustified. Our countries cannot accept any excuses or justifications, nor any rhetoric supporting Iran’s narrative. Attempts to blackmail the region are unacceptable and must be confronted,” he said, according to the UAE Foreign Ministry.

He emphasized the importance of enforcing UN Security Council Resolution 2817, adopted on March 11, 2026, which condemned Iran’s terrorist attacks and affirmed Arab countries’ right to self-defense. Al-Marar praised Bahrain and other nations that supported the resolution, noting backing from 136 UN member states.

The UAE, he said, has shown restraint in responding to these terrorist attacks, but remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, residents, and visitors. Al-Marar underscored the UAE’s right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter.

He honored the UAE’s fallen armed forces and civilian personnel, saying their sacrifices guide the country’s defense efforts. Al-Marar also thanked countries that condemned Iran’s actions and supported Arab measures to protect regional security.

Al-Marar called for a unified Arab stance against Iran, stressing that holding Tehran accountable for its terrorist aggression and resulting damages is essential to prevent future attacks and deter escalation.

He said Iran must immediately stop attacks on the UAE and other nations, respect sovereignty, territorial integrity, airspace, and international navigation, including through the Strait of Hormuz. He warned that Iran’s threats to shipping and commerce constitute serious violations of international law and endanger energy security, trade, and the global economy.

“Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz is economic terrorism. All countries have a responsibility to ensure safe passage of commercial vessels under international law,” Al-Marar said, noting UAE support for measures to secure maritime navigation.

He urged the Arab League to refer the situation to the UN Security Council under Chapter VII to prevent Iran from threatening regional waterways and to endorse the UAE-backed IMO statement on the issue.

Al-Marar reiterated that the UAE has long sought regional stability through tolerance, cooperation, and economic progress.

“But given Iran’s terrorist attacks, it is no longer possible to coexist with the Iranian regime while its behavior continues. Addressing Iran’s nuclear program, missiles, drones, and threats to trade and navigation is necessary for sustainable peace,” he said.

He warned that the Arab League faces a choice: act with full solidarity to confront Iranian terrorism or risk losing relevance in the face of major regional challenges.

The UAE expressed confidence that Bahrain will lead the current session effectively, with continued support from the UAE during this sensitive period.

(With files from UAE Foreign Ministry)