Amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has declared that it will not allow its airspace, territory, or waters to be used for any military action against Iran, nor will it provide logistical support for such operations.
The UAE Foreign Ministry shared the position on X on Monday, emphasising its commitment to prevent hostile military actions from involving its territory and urging dialogue, de-escalation, and respect for international law.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to not allowing its airspace, territory, or waters to be used in any hostile military actions against Iran, and to not providing any logistical support in this regard,” the statement read.
The UAE, a major US ally in the Middle East, hosts the US Al Dhafra Air Base, which houses over 3,500 American troops. Reports suggest that other US allies in the region, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, share similar concerns, although their positions have not been publicly announced.
Tensions have surged after anti-government protests in Iran earlier this month, which have reportedly left over 2,000 people dead. While human rights groups accused Iranian security forces of targeting peaceful protesters, Tehran has blamed the US and Israel for infiltrating demonstrations to foment violence and destruction.
Former US President Donald Trump previously threatened military intervention, warning that if Iran “shoots and violently kills peaceful protesters, the United States of America will come to their rescue.” A US naval force, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and three destroyers, reportedly arrived in the Indian Ocean last Friday and is en route to the Gulf of Oman, signaling possible US military action.
The US administration has reiterated that all options, including military action, remain on the table, as Washington and Israel continue to push for political change in Tehran—a move widely seen as violating international law.
Iran has warned of retaliation, raising concerns that any military escalation could trigger a wider regional conflict. The UAE’s firm stance signals its desire to avoid being drawn into a direct confrontation, even as US forces mobilise nearby.
