Iranian officials alleged that the UAE provided support and facilities to US and Israeli operations during the conflict
A fresh diplomatic confrontation has erupted between Iran and the United Arab Emirates after Tehran accused Abu Dhabi of playing a direct role in military operations carried out during the recent conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
The accusations were raised during discussions on the sidelines of a BRICS security meeting, where Iranian officials alleged that the UAE had supported military actions against Tehran by providing facilities and assistance to forces involved in the conflict.
Iran levels serious allegations
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the UAE had been an “active partner” in what he described as aggression against Iran. He alleged that Abu Dhabi provided airspace, intelligence and logistical support to the United States and Israel during military operations targeting Iranian interests.
Araghchi claimed Iran had refrained from publicly naming the UAE in earlier remarks “for the sake of unity” but said Tehran believed the Gulf nation had played a more direct role than previously acknowledged. He also criticised the UAE for not condemning the initial attacks on Iran.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi echoed those allegations, accusing the UAE of facilitating military action against Iran and arguing that countries providing support or facilities to aggressors could themselves be considered participants in the conflict.
UAE rejects accusations
The UAE has strongly rejected Iran’s claims, describing them as baseless and reiterating its commitment to national sovereignty and regional stability.
During BRICS discussions, UAE Minister of State Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar defended his country’s position, saying attacks against the UAE and other regional states constituted violations of international law and the principles of good neighbourliness. He also rejected any allegations that questioned the UAE’s independent decision-making or security policies.
BRICS divisions exposed
The dispute highlighted broader divisions within the BRICS grouping over the conflict involving Iran. Earlier BRICS meetings struggled to produce a unified position on the war, with disagreements between member states preventing consensus on a joint statement.
Iran has repeatedly sought stronger support from BRICS members, urging the bloc to condemn US and Israeli military actions. However, differing positions among member countries, particularly regarding Gulf security and regional alliances, have complicated efforts to present a common front.
The latest exchange underscores continuing tensions between Tehran and Abu Dhabi even as diplomatic efforts continue to stabilise the region following months of conflict and negotiations aimed at preventing further escalation.
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