UAE Minister Highlights Threats from Iran

A minister from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) expressed on Sunday that the nation’s tolerance and economic growth have made it a target for Iranian aggression.

Reem Al Hashimi, the UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, shared her views on ABC’s This Week with host Jonathan Karl. She pointed out that while Iran misuses its oil wealth to support terrorist activities, the UAE has focused on creating a “model of prosperity and tolerance.”

“We’ve turned our oil resources into an economic powerhouse. In contrast, they have directed their wealth into nuclear programs, missiles, and supporting proxies,” Hashimi stated. “They’re a pariah state, while we’re striving to be responsible global players.”

Karl noted that since late February, the UAE has endured 2,819 strikes from Iranian missiles and drones, surpassing other nations, including Israel, which collaborates with the United States.

“They’ve chosen this confrontational path because we embody everything they oppose,” Hashimi remarked, emphasizing the UAE’s acceptance of diverse nationalities and religions.

Still, the UAE’s public stance on tolerance has faced criticism. Reports from the United Nations and others have suggested that the UAE may be covertly supporting Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces amidst a violent civil conflict.

A February UN report described the situation as having “genocidal characteristics,” highlighting intentions to target Sudan’s Christian communities in line with an “Arab supremacist ideology.”

The Global Center for the Responsibility to Protect also noted that the UAE has backed the Southern Transitional Council in Yemen, fighting against the Iranian-aligned Houthi forces, contributing to significant civilian casualties from airstrikes.

Moreover, allegations have surfaced regarding the UAE’s military aid to the Libyan National Army in its battle against Islamic militants.

Hashimi argued that Iran is intent on disrupting the UAE’s success but suggested they “underrate our determination.” She mentioned that a deal between the U.S. and Iran could come about eventually, but expressed concerns about it fortifying Iran’s position.

“From our standpoint, peace is vital, but it can’t come at a bad price,” Hashimi noted. “We need to address the root issues, which include Iran’s relationships with proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, as well as their missile and drone capabilities.”

She acknowledged the importance of not allowing Iran to control the Strait of Hormuz moving forward, adding that it would be crucial for long-term stability.

Initially, Hashimi was against the idea of war, preferring negotiation, but she concluded that Iran must demonstrate substantial changes to regain trust.

“Trust is something you earn, John,” she asserted. “And we’re not naive.”

Responding to comments about regime change from President Trump, Hashimi pointed out that while there have been changes in leadership, the same system—led by the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps—still seems to dominate.

When questioned about Trump’s threats of targeting Iranian infrastructure if they don’t comply with U.S. demands, Hashimi said that applying maximum pressure could yield progress against the Revolutionary Guards. She hopes that any actions taken wouldn’t adversely affect the Iranian populace but acknowledged the significant risk posed by the Revolutionary Guards to neighboring states.