Attacks on Saudi Arabia affect UAE security directly, Gargash warns

Attacks on Saudi Arabia pose a direct threat to the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) security and prosperity, according to Dr Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed. Gargash addressed this during the Arab Media Summit in Dubai on Thursday, following a reported Houthi drone attack on Makkah on Tuesday evening. The intercepted drone was destroyed before it entered the holy city's airspace.

He emphasized the need to rebuild trust with Iran after its frequent attacks on Gulf states since the beginning of the war on February 28. Gargash highlighted the interconnectedness of the security and prosperity of the UAE with that of Saudi Arabia. He warned that weapons outside the control of the government could destabilize Iran, which he stated is being influenced by Iran to attack Middle East countries.

The UAE's role extends beyond self-defense and protection of sovereignty to preparing for dialogue with Iran. Gargash stressed that the crisis will end and a new page must be prepared for. He cautioned that Iran's decision to attack neighboring Gulf states was a strategic mistake and urged Iran to reconsider its approach towards the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The Iranian President's criticism of the attacks on the GCC, as reported by Gargash, is a positive step in the right direction.