UAE Urges Iran to Cease Regional Strikes

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has called on Iran to halt its missile and drone attacks across the Gulf region, following extensive damage to Emirati infrastructure. On [Date of BBC Interview], UAE Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh stated that over 1,800 drones and missiles have targeted the UAE since the conflict began, impacting prominent landmarks such as the Fairmont The Palm hotel and the Burj Al Arab.

Dubai International Airport has also experienced drone landings, leading to thousands of flight cancellations.

While Nusseibeh affirmed the UAE's right to collective self-defense under international law, she did not confirm military retaliation. She reiterated the UAE's prior stance against its territory or airspace being used for attacks against Iran. The minister acknowledged the economic impact, including disruptions to trade at Jebel Ali port and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, but expressed confidence in the UAE's economic resilience, citing 5.1% growth last year.

Nusseibeh declined to comment on the arrest of a British national under cyber-crime laws for allegedly filming Iranian missiles, citing a lack of detailed information. She emphasized the importance of credible information during tense times, referencing legislation that governs information flow. Other Gulf states, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman, have also been targeted in the ongoing regional escalation.