US-Iran talks: UAE ‘braced for the worst’, hoping for diplomacy

Dubai: The UAE is optimistic about a potential diplomatic breakthrough between the United States and Iran, yet remains prepared for the worst in light of mounting tensions in the Middle East, warned Anwar Gargash, the UAE's diplomatic adviser. Speaking at a conference in Bahrain, Gargash emphasized the region's disinterest in another round of conflict, even as governments remain vigilant to the possibility of further military escalation.

"We’re hoping that there is a diplomatic breakthrough," Gargash said. "But I think we’re also, as we’ve shown before, braced for the worst."

At the 22nd IISS Manama Dialogue, the GCC Secretary-General, Jasem Mohamed Al Budaiwi, echoed similar sentiments, urging Iran to reciprocate the GCC's willingness to engage in dialogue. "The GCC states have always called for dialogue and negotiation to resolve any issue in the region, and they still do," Al Budaiwi stated. "But diplomacy needs partners, partners who respond in kind."

The bloc has maintained communication channels with Iran while collaborating with international partners to safeguard regional security, noting that GCC countries did not provoke the conflict but have suffered casualties and damage to civilian and critical infrastructure due to Iranian attacks.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia's Vice Foreign Minister, Waleed Elkhereiji, cautioned over shipping threats in key waterways, urging coordinated international action to secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea, and Bab el-Mandeb. The warnings underscored the delicate balance Gulf governments must strike between pursuing diplomatic engagement with Tehran and preparing for the security and economic repercussions of any renewed conflict.