New Delhi, May 16: At the BRICS meeting of foreign ministers held in India, UAE State Minister Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar openly criticized Iran. He firmly rejected Iran’s accusations and attempts to justify attacks on the UAE and other regional countries. Al Marar stated that these actions are a blatant violation of the United Nations Charter, international law, and the principles of good neighborly relations.
He emphasized that the UAE will not accept any accusations or threats against its sovereignty, national security, or the right to make independent decisions. The UAE possesses the full legal, diplomatic, and military authority to respond to any threats, accusations, or hostile actions.
Al Marar noted that since February 28, 2026, the UAE has faced continuous and unprovoked attacks from Iran. The UAE’s air defense system has intercepted nearly 3,000 attacks, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, which intentionally targeted civilian facilities and critical infrastructure such as airports, ports, oil facilities, desalination plants, energy networks, service centers, and residential areas.
Despite numerous proposals and condemnations at both international and regional levels, Iran has continued its terrorist attacks against the UAE and other countries in the region. This blatant disregard for international consensus includes UN Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), which was supported by 136 nations. Additionally, a resolution condemning Iranian attacks was unanimously passed at the UN Human Rights Council meeting in Geneva on March 25, 2026. These attacks violate international law and pose a threat to global peace and security.
Al Marar stated that the international community has consistently condemned Iran’s attacks. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) passed a resolution demanding that Iran immediately cease attacks or threats against commercial vessels and critical port infrastructure. Similarly, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) council unanimously condemned attacks targeting civilian telecommunications and ICT infrastructure. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) council also passed a resolution condemning Iran’s activities that jeopardize food security.
Al Marar highlighted that Iran has obstructed international maritime routes, including nearly closing the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital waterways. This is a clear violation of international law. Targeting commercial vessels and using the Strait of Hormuz as a means of economic pressure or blackmail is akin to maritime piracy, posing a direct threat to the region, its people, and global energy security.
Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar asserted that the UAE does not seek security from any other country and is fully capable of responding to and preventing these unprovoked attacks. He reiterated that under Article 51 of the UN Charter, the UAE has the complete and legitimate right to protect its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the safety of its citizens, residents, and visitors.
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