UAE President Declares 'State of War' Following Iranian Attacks

In his first public address since the escalation of Middle East tensions, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan declared that the United Arab Emirates is in a state of war. He attributed this situation to attacks from Iran but vowed that the nation would emerge stronger.

"We are in a state of war, and I promise them that we will fulfill our duty," the President stated. "This situation was imposed on us, and we are acting to protect ourselves, our families, and our country."

Sheikh Mohammed praised the country's armed forces for their role "during this war" and commended security services for their honorable service. He also acknowledged the contributions of foreign residents living in the UAE.

The President used stark imagery to convey the nation's resilience. "The UAE is an attractive, beautiful, and exemplary country, but do not be fooled," he warned. "The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh—we cannot be swallowed. We are not easy prey."

Demonstrating a personal commitment, Sheikh Mohammed visited five individuals wounded in the recent attacks. The victims included two Emirati citizens and one citizen each from India, Sudan, and Iran. He emphasized that caring for the wounded was "our responsibility."

The declaration follows a series of military actions in the region. On February 28, the United States and Israel initiated a military operation against Iran. In response, Tehran launched attacks on American assets within Washington's allied countries across the Middle East.

The UAE was among the nations targeted. While strikes were aimed at military infrastructure, civilian sites were also affected. Reports indicated attacks on Dubai's iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, with Iranian drones approaching the Burj Khalifa skyscraper and falling in the Palm Jumeirah area.

The situation intensified on the morning of March 7 when Iran's naval forces carried out a massive drone strike against American facilities in both the UAE and Kuwait. The targets included Al Minhad Air Base in Abu Dhabi and Camp Adiri in Kuwait. Dubai International Airport was also subjected to an attack.