Brussels: The United Arab Emirates participated in an Extraordinary Meeting of leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Armenia, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Trkiye, and the European Union (EU). The meeting, held via videoconference on 9 March 2026, focused on discussing Iranian aggression against the countries in the Gulf and the wider region.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting was co-chaired by Ant³nio Costa, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, expressed sincere gratitude to the assembled leaders for their support and solidarity during the current crisis. H.H. Sheikh Saif commended the resilience demonstrated by the UAE in defending against more than 1,700 Iranian missiles and drones, emphasizing the country's resolve to ensure the safety and security of all people on its territory.
In his address, H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted that Iran's actions violate the UAE's sovereignty and territorial integrity, breaching international law and posing a threat to international and regional peace and security. He warned that these attacks directly assault the UAE's model of security, tolerance, and prosperity.
H.H. Sheikh Saif stressed that the UAE had responded with measured restraint to prevent further escalation and maintain diplomatic engagement avenues. He affirmed the UAE's preparedness to confront threats, reiterating the nation's right of self-defence and determination to preserve its vision for the region.
H.H. Sheikh Saif emphasized that European countries, given their strategic ties and interests in the Middle East and the presence of their citizens residing and visiting the UAE, can contribute to reducing regional escalation and containing its repercussions.
In conclusion, H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan called for strengthening partnerships in defense, maritime security, and trade to achieve regional stability and shared prosperity.