The United Arab Emirates believes that military solutions will not provide a swift resolution to the current crisis involving Iran and the U.S., according to UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash. Speaking at the Manama Dialogue security forum in Bahrain, Gargash expressed hope that Qatar-led mediations could lead to a diplomatic breakthrough and avert further confrontation.
"We don’t really want to see another round of confrontation in the region," Gargash stated. He emphasized that political tools should be the primary means of addressing the complex situation, warning that military actions would only exacerbate it.
Iranian negotiators are reportedly in Qatar for talks concerning a proposal that could potentially reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that while no direct talks with the U.S. are occurring, the outcome depends on Washington's response to "Iranian questions." Araghchi also conveyed Iran's hope that the U.S. would "choose diplomacy over other paths."
Gargash acknowledged that the positions of the U.S. and Iran appear significantly divergent, which could lead to concerning outcomes if not bridged. He noted that another round of war is not in the interest of the region or Iran.
Other Gulf and Arab officials echoed these sentiments. Egypt's foreign minister Badr Abdelatty described a potential second round of escalation as "more dangerous, more destructive, and it will lead to nowhere."
Despite the diplomatic push, Gargash indicated that the UAE and the wider region are preparing for the possibility of escalation. During a previous period before a ceasefire in April, the UAE experienced a significant number of airborne attacks from Iran, including drone and ballistic missile strikes targeting airports, military installations, and oil facilities, according to the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).
Bahraini Foreign Affairs Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani stated that his country supports all efforts to de-escalate tensions and foster dialogue. He pointed to a pattern of attacks and threats from Iran, including those attributed to Iran-backed Houthi rebels on Saudi Arabia, which he believes threaten regional and global stability.
Officials also discussed the lack of a coordinated defense response among the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council during the height of the conflict with Iran. Gargash offered a candid assessment, stating, "In one of our most critical crises, we collectively have not risen to the challenge."