UAE Advocates for Dialogue to Ease Gulf Tensions and Addresses Disputed Islands

United Nations, September 29 (Daily Kiran) : The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a key player in the Gulf conflict, expressed its commitment to reducing tensions and seeking peaceful resolutions through dialogue at the United Nations on September 28. The ongoing strife in the Gulf is impacting global economic stability and security.

Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, the UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, stated at the UN General Assembly, “Our principled stance is based on reducing tensions, bridging distances between nations, promoting diplomacy and dialogue, and resolving disputes peacefully. We oppose the unlawful use of force or threats and coercion.”

Al Marar also raised the issue of three islands currently under Iranian control: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa. These islands hold strategic significance due to their proximity to the Strait of Hormuz.

He emphasized, “Iran continues to occupy three Emirati islands, which we do not accept. The UAE has consistently called for a peaceful resolution to this dispute, which can be addressed through direct negotiations or by taking it to the International Court.”

Iran seized control of these islands in 1971, and the presence of military bases from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has heightened tensions. Amid escalating conflict in the Gulf, the United States has conducted attacks on Abu Musa and Greater Tunb.

Without delving into further details about the conflict, Al Marar underscored the importance of ensuring the free and safe passage of vessels in maritime routes. He stated that it is essential to protect supply chains, trade, and energy movement in accordance with international law, maritime law, and the principles of state sovereignty. Despite various crises, the UAE continues its efforts towards development and progress.

Al Marar remarked, “This nation was built not in the absence of challenges, but by facing them head-on.”

The UAE is among Israel’s closest partners in the Arab world. However, Al Marar condemned Israeli actions in Palestinian territories in strong terms. He stressed the urgent need to halt Israel’s increasing activities in the West Bank, settlement expansions, violence from settlers, terrorism, and violations in East Jerusalem and at religious sites.

Media reports indicate that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.