Iran and UAE Tensions Rise Amid BRICS Security Meeting

Escalating Tensions at BRICS Meeting

On Tuesday, during the 16th Meeting of BRICS National Security Advisers held in New Delhi, tensions between Iran and the United Arab Emirates intensified significantly. Iranian officials accused the UAE of being directly involved in military actions against Iran amid recent operations conducted by the US and Israel. The Iranian Embassy in India shared a statement on X, where Ghadir Nezamipour, Deputy Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, vehemently countered claims made by the Emirati delegation. He shifted the focus to a direct confrontation regarding the ongoing regional tensions.

Nezamipour criticized the US and Israel for instigating the recent crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the UAE not only allowed its territory to be used for attacks but also actively participated in operations targeting Iranian infrastructure. He stated, "The entire world witnessed that the United States and the Zionist regime were the initiators of the aggression and the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. Part of these attacks were launched from bases located on the territory of the United Arab Emirates." He further added, "Instead of condemning these hostile actions, the UAE directly participated in the aggression and allowed its territory to be used as a platform for attacks against Iran's civilian infrastructure, schools, and hospitals."

During his address at the BRICS session, Nezamipour emphasized that Iran has historically maintained positive relations with its neighbors. He expressed disappointment that the UAE had not reciprocated Iran's goodwill, stating, "We expected our neighbors to respond to Iran's goodwill with goodwill, but unfortunately, instead of preventing tension, the UAE stoked it and participated in the attack on Iran's civilian and non-military centers." He reiterated, "Iran's arms remain open to its neighbours, but some countries must reconsider their policy of accompanying aggressor states against Iran and refrain from providing their territory for attacks against Iran."

Iran's Call for Peace

Nezamipour made a direct appeal to the UAE delegation, urging a change in their approach and cautioning against the dangers of "propaganda and adventurism." He expressed hope that the UAE would prioritize the principles of good neighborliness and opt for peace, stability, and regional cooperation. In a related development, Iran and the United States have completed the first round of technical discussions as part of a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at reducing hostilities in West Asia, with both parties agreeing to form a High-Level Committee and establish a roadmap for a final agreement within 60 days.