The UAE, the Voice of Peace: Three Approaches to Handling the Iran-Israel War

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Through three key approaches, the United Arab Emirates has addressed the Iran-Israel war by advancing efforts for de-escalation, reducing tensions, and mitigating its wide-ranging impacts.

The first approach is diplomatic. Since the conflict began on June 13, the UAE, led by President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has intensified its diplomatic efforts to foster de-escalation and stability between Iran and Israel.

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The second approach is humanitarian. Under the President’s directives, the UAE waived overstay fines for Iranian nationals residing in the country and coordinated the evacuation of Emirati citizens and residents from Iran, prioritizing their safety.

The third approach is environmental. National authorities, in coordination with international partners, have been closely monitoring the situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear facilities after the strikes to ensure there are no harmful effects on the UAE or the broader region.

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These comprehensive measures underscore that “the UAE is the voice of reason and a pillar of peace, stability, and prosperity,” said Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the UAE president, in a statement on X.

He added: “Amid these exceptional regional circumstances, we have full confidence in the wisdom of our leadership, headed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, to steer the nation with insight and resolve. The UAE will remain the voice of reason and a foundation for peace and prosperity.”

The Iran-Israel conflict, which began on June 13, entered a new phase with US involvement early Sunday, when Washington launched airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.

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Diplomatic Efforts
Following the strikes, the UAE expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions and attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities. It called for an immediate halt to hostilities to prevent severe consequences and further regional instability.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the importance of prioritizing diplomacy and dialogue to resolve conflicts through comprehensive approaches that ensure stability, prosperity, and justice. The UAE also called on the international community to intensify efforts to address these sensitive and dangerous developments.

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The UAE urged the United Nations and the Security Council to assume their responsibilities by working earnestly to resolve chronic regional issues that now pose a growing threat to global peace and security.

The statement reaffirmed the UAE’s belief that wisdom and responsibility require serious engagement in negotiating critical issues, drawing from the region’s historical conflicts and their lessons.

On Sunday, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed held phone calls with the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah; the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani; and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman to discuss the regional situation and its security implications.

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The leaders warned of the regional and international consequences of continued tension, urging all parties to exercise restraint, resort to dialogue and peaceful solutions, and support diplomatic efforts for de-escalation.

These discussions are part of the UAE’s latest diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions between Iran and Israel and contribute to regional stability.

Over the past days, the UAE has issued statements and held talks with officials from more than 36 countries, believing that coordinated regional and international action is essential to end the escalation.

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Since the start of hostilities, President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan have maintained active diplomatic communication with world leaders to prevent the conflict from spreading.

This reflects the UAE’s firm commitment to diplomacy and dialogue as the only viable path, avoiding the rhetoric of confrontation and escalation, and promoting comprehensive solutions rooted in stability, prosperity, and justice.

As part of its diplomatic response, the UAE released a comprehensive roadmap last Tuesday to resolve the Iran-Israel crisis and stop the escalation.

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In the statement, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed laid out a detailed framework based on the following principles:

• The urgent need for a diplomatic approach leading to de-escalation and an end to the conflict, preventing it from spiraling out of control. 
• The immediate cessation of hostilities as a clear goal before the situation deteriorates further. 

The plan includes several mechanisms:

• Coordinated regional and international efforts to prevent the conflict from expanding and to contain its impact on peace and security. 
• Full responsibility from the UN and Security Council in preventing further escalation. 
• Urgent and necessary steps to implement a ceasefire and restore peace. 

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This roadmap followed a joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of 20 countries, led by the UAE, expressing deep concern over the recent escalation and calling for a swift return to negotiations.

Humanitarian Measures
Alongside its diplomatic efforts, the United Arab Emirates has also prioritized humanitarian actions to mitigate the impact of the crisis on those affected.

As part of this approach, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security decided to exempt Iranian nationals currently in the UAE from overstay fines, whether they are residents or visitors holding any type of entry visa.

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This measure was taken in response to the exceptional circumstances in the region and aims to ease the burden on individuals unable to return to their home country due to airspace closures and suspended flights. It was implemented under the directives of President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The authority reaffirmed its commitment to upholding humanitarian values and providing full support to residents and visitors in the country.

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Environmental Approach
On the environmental front, following the recent escalation, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation assured the public that relevant national agencies are closely monitoring developments related to Iran’s nuclear facilities.

The authority confirmed it is continuously receiving updates in coordination with international partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), through official channels.

It emphasized that, based on ongoing assessments, there are currently no effects on the UAE resulting from these developments. The public was urged to rely on official sources for information and to avoid spreading unverified reports or rumors.

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Support for International Peace and Security
The UAE’s efforts to resolve the Iran-Israel crisis embody the nation’s broader commitment to supporting international peace and security, as well as its proactive role in addressing both regional and global challenges. These efforts are grounded in key Emirati principles, including:

• The belief that diplomatic solutions are essential for resolving conflicts and easing tensions. 
• A commitment to respecting national sovereignty and upholding international law. 
• Ongoing efforts to resolve regional crises and prevent the emergence of new ones, fostering peace and stability. 
• The conviction that dialogue is the only reliable path to ensuring the security of nations and their peoples. 
• A focus on enhancing international cooperation in addressing common challenges. 
• Support for regional initiatives aimed at avoiding the outbreak of new conflicts. 
• The view that political will and effective mediation are essential to resolving crises. 
• The UAE’s consistent role as an advocate for peace, never acting as a party to any conflict. 

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These principles guide the UAE’s sustained efforts to resolve the current crisis and promote global peace and stability.

Since the leadership of the founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE has positioned itself as a key player and reliable partner in advancing peace initiatives at both the regional and international levels. This stems from its humanitarian heritage and civilizational mission rooted in values of tolerance, peace, and rejection of extremism.

The world also recalls the UAE’s notable role in ending Africa’s longest-running conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea in July 2018, through the mediation of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

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