'We are no easy prey': UAE president issues first statement on war with Iran
Despite Iran's attacks, the UAE remains determined (illustrative photo: Getty Images)
UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has made his first public comments since the confrontation with Iran began, saying the country is effectively in a state of war but remains confident, according to Reuters.
The UAE leader said his country is "no easy prey," referring to missile and drone attacks launched by Iran after the start of the US-Israeli operation against the ayatollah regime. He made the remarks while visiting people injured in the attacks.
"The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh—we are no easy prey. We will carry out our duty towards our country, our people, and our residents who are also part of our family," Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said.
Iran's attacks on the UAE
Since the conflict in the Middle East escalated, the United Arab Emirates has increasingly become a target of Iranian strikes. Recently, debris from Russian-made drones launched by Iran was discovered in Dubai.
The country has suffered even more air attacks than Israel due to frequent strikes and provocations by pro-Iranian forces. Against this backdrop, Abu Dhabi is considering strengthening its air defense system.
One of the latest incidents occurred on March 7, when Dubai International Airport (DXB) was temporarily shut down after an Iranian drone attack. The drone struck near the main terminals, causing a powerful explosion.
Food shortages, military readiness
Another challenge for the UAE is not just the attacks. The fighting in the Middle East could lead to food shortages across the region. In Dubai, for example, supplies of fresh food are estimated to last only about 10 days.
Amid ongoing missile and drone strikes, as well as concerns over food supply, the UAE is studying scenarios that could involve the use of military force against Iran to stop further attacks and stabilize the security situation.
