The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strongly condemned and denounced a recent “terrorist” attack perpetrated by Iran against an Emirati national tanker belonging to ADNOC. According to official reports, the attack involved the use of two drones, which targeted the vessel as it navigated through the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement issued by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the government expressed its categorical rejection of the attack and described it as a clear act of terrorism that poses a significant threat to regional and global maritime security. The statement further emphasized the UAE’s determination to take all necessary measures to protect its national interests and the safety of its citizens.
The use of drones in the attack appears to have raised concerns about the increased vulnerability of shipping operations in the region. The Ministry noted that such methods of attack not only endanger human lives but also demonstrate a blatant disregard for the basic norms of civilized international relations and global maritime standards.
The UAE has consistently called for a strengthening of regional and international cooperation to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Given the complexity of the issue, the Ministry underscored the essential need for concerted efforts from all parties involved in ensuring the security and stability of the region.
The statement concludes by reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to working closely with its partners and allies to thwart such heinous acts of terrorism and prevent any attempts that may seek to undermine the security and stability of the region.
Separately in other news, the UAE’s foreign affairs ministry is under mounting international pressure over allegations of whitewashing human rights abuses. Human rights advocacy groups have been vocal in calling for the UAE to take concrete steps to address these pressing concerns.
While these demands were largely ignored by the public statements released by the UAE government in response to the recent attack, it suggests a stark contradiction between their stated commitment to human rights and their continued diplomatic ties with nations that the international community deems human rights abusers.
It remains to be seen how long the UAE can maintain such close ties with nations under human rights firestorm given the increased international scrutiny and accountability mechanisms now at play.
