Home / War and Conflict / UAE Fires Back at Iran Over US Strike Claims
UAE Fires Back at Iran Over US Strike Claims
15 Mar
Summary
- UAE rebuffed Iran's claims about US strike origin.
- Fujairah Oil Zone fire caused by aerial interception debris.
- Iran threatened UAE ports, urging evacuations.
The United Arab Emirates has issued a strong rebuttal to Tehran regarding claims that a recent US strike on Iran's Kharg Island oil hub originated from the Gulf state. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE President, characterized Iran's policy as confused and lacking wisdom, emphasizing the UAE's commitment to reason while reserving its right to self-defense.
This exchange occurred shortly after a fire erupted at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, attributed to debris from an aerial interception. The blaze, which lightly injured a Jordanian national, prompted the partial suspension of oil-loading operations in Fujairah, a significant bunkering hub. The incident followed direct threats from Iran, which named three UAE ports—Jebel Ali, Khalifa, and Fujairah—as potential targets, urging immediate evacuations due to unsubstantiated claims of US military use.
Gulf Arab states have been frequently targeted by Iranian drone and missile attacks amidst the ongoing conflict, striking oil fields, cities, and infrastructure. Fujairah's strategic location outside the Strait of Hormuz makes it a critical outlet for crude oil exports.
