UAE Denies Striking Iranian Desalination Plant Amid Ongoing Conflict

In the midst of escalating tensions between the US, Israel, and Iran, the UAE has denied claims of attacking an Iranian desalination plant, labeling the reports as fake news. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, a UAE official, emphasized the country's commitment to transparency regarding military actions. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister accused the US of being responsible for the attack, complicating the narrative further. As the situation unfolds, questions remain about the accuracy of these reports and the potential implications for regional stability.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 9, 2026, 00:00 IST

UAE's Response to Allegations

As the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran reached its ninth day, reports emerged from a media outlet citing sources in the UAE that claimed the United Arab Emirates had attacked an Iranian desalination facility. This would mark the UAE's first direct retaliation against Iran following a week of missile and drone assaults targeting its territory. However, the UAE has firmly denied these claims.

UAE Calls Reports 'Fake News'

Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, a prominent member of the UAE Federal National Council and head of the Defence Affairs, Interior and Foreign Affairs Committee, strongly refuted the allegations on social media, labeling them as 'fake news.' He emphasized that the UAE would openly announce any military actions it undertakes.

In a follow-up post, Al Nuaimi made a clear distinction between the Iranian government and its citizens, expressing concern for the well-being of the Iranian people, who he described as the true victims of the regime's policies.

Official Statement from UAE Foreign Affairs

The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement confirming that the nation is currently defending itself against what it described as 'brutal and unprovoked Iranian aggression,' which has involved over 1,400 ballistic missiles and drones targeting civilian infrastructure, resulting in casualties.

Despite this, the ministry's statement was measured, asserting that the UAE does not wish to escalate the situation but reserves the right to take necessary actions to protect its sovereignty.

Confusion Over the Attack

Interestingly, not only did the UAE deny the attack on the desalination facility, but Iran's Foreign Minister also pointed fingers elsewhere. Seyed Abbas Araghchi accused the United States of being responsible for the strike on a desalination plant located on Qeshm Island, claiming it had severely impacted water supply in numerous villages.

He stated, 'The US committed a blatant and desperate crime by attacking a freshwater desalination plant on Qeshm Island.' This sequence of events raises questions about whether the reports refer to the same incident, separate attacks, or a mix of misinformation and accurate reporting.