UAE advisor outlines strategy for Iran relations and regional security

Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the President of the United Arab Emirates, stated that relations with Iran are “necessary” for the UAE, though he noted that rebuilding trust will require years due to past confrontations.

Speaking at the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, Gargash outlined a three-pronged approach to Iran: maintaining deterrence to protect UAE sovereignty, exercising flexibility for dialogue to find new formulations, and prioritizing national interests. He described a recent meeting between Crown Prince Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in New Delhi as “very good,” noting an agreement on the need to turn a new page and look toward the future.

Gargash characterized President Pezeshkian as a “rational voice” for his calls to stop targeting Gulf states. Regarding regional stability, he emphasized that Saudi Arabian security is inseparable from UAE security and expressed rejection of Houthi attacks on Saudi territory. He also warned against attempts to control the Bab al-Mandab strait, stressing that both Bab al-Mandab and the Strait of Hormuz are vital international waterways that must remain open to ensure global economic and maritime security.