UAE president comments on national security amid regional tensions

President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates addressed the public on Saturday, stating the country is in a state of war following recent missile strikes launched by Iran. During a visit to injured citizens on Friday, he emphasized that the UAE is prepared to defend its sovereignty and protect all residents within its seven emirates. An Emirati official subsequently called for an immediate halt to Iranian attacks on non-combatant nations, stating that the UAE wishes to prevent further regional escalation. Conversely, the head of the Iranian judiciary, Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, claimed that Iran possesses evidence that certain regional countries have collaborated with the adversary. The UAE remains committed to protecting its population while advocating for a reduction in regional hostilities. The official statements from Abu Dhabi highlight a strategy of defensive readiness, while Tehran's rhetoric suggests ongoing accusations of regional alliances against Iranian interests.