Image credit: WAM/Website
In light of escalating tensions in the region following attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has engaged in a series of high-level discussions with international and regional leaders. The conversations, which included leaders from Oman, France, Italy, and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, emphasized the need to prevent further escalation and seek diplomatic pathways to ensure stability in the region.
On June 22, Sheikh Mohamed had discussions with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. There was widespread concern about the serious potential consequences following the recent strikes on Iran, according to a report from WAM.
Immediate calls for calm
Throughout these discussions, leaders underscored the pressing need for heightened international efforts to de-escalate tensions. They highlighted that dialogue and diplomacy should be the foremost strategies for resolving the crisis and preventing further instability in the region.
As reported by the UAE’s official news agency, the leaders reiterated their collective objective of maintaining regional peace and shielding populations from the extensive impacts of conflict.
UAE Foreign Affairs Ministry: Diplomatic intervention is essential
Separately, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) voiced similar sentiments, expressing deep concern regarding the escalating tensions, particularly regarding the attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
The ministry cautioned about the potential for “serious repercussions” and called for swift de-escalation. “Disputes must be resolved through diplomatic and holistic approaches that foster stability, prosperity, and justice,” the statement indicated.
MoFA also urged the international community to amplify its efforts toward a peaceful resolution and called on the United Nations and its Security Council to fulfill their responsibilities during this critical period for the region.
FANR: Assurance of no nuclear threat to UAE
As public anxiety grew regarding the nuclear aspects of the conflict, the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) reassured residents that there are currently no nuclear threats to the UAE stemming from recent events in Iran.
FANR stated it is collaborating with international organizations, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to closely monitor the situation. They advised the public to rely on official sources for information and to avoid spreading unverified news or rumors.
Qatar and Saudi Arabia advocate for caution
The State of Qatar also expressed concern regarding the decline in regional stability following the bombing of Iranian nuclear sites. The Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned of potentially “catastrophic consequences” if current tensions are not managed effectively.
In a statement from Qatar News Agency (QNA), the nation urged all involved parties to show restraint and prioritize diplomacy to avert further escalation.
Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, had separate discussions with leaders from GCC member states, including the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait.
The dialogues revolved around regional developments following Israeli strikes on Iran, reportedly supported by the United States, which included attacks on nuclear facilities.
GCC solidarity during the crisis
Reports from the Saudi Press Agency noted that GCC leaders reaffirmed their unity and their collective commitment to uphold regional peace. They collectively advocated for restraint and emphasized the significance of diplomatic engagement in resolving differences.
“The GCC member states stand united in these challenging times,” a joint statement reiterated, adding that all endeavors should focus on averting further deterioration of the situation.