UAE president declares statehood in case of war, pledges to protect citizens and residents, says we are not easy prey

United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan declared his country “at war” and reassured citizens and residents that the country was ready to defend itself against any threat. His comments, his first public comments since Iran launched missiles at Gulf targets amid U.S.-Israeli airstrikes, came while he was visiting people injured in Friday’s attack and were broadcast on Abu Dhabi TV on Saturday.

UAE sends strong warning to enemies

President Mohammed bin Zayed expressed his firm stance against invasion, saying, “The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh,” and “We are not easy prey.” “We will fulfill our duty to our country, our people, and the residents who are also our family.”

He emphasized that the UAE, which includes seven emirates including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, will protect everyone in the country.

Iranian attacks must stop, an Emirati official said.

The UAE official added Saturday that the UAE wanted Iranian attacks on non-combatant Gulf countries to stop immediately. “Any kind of escalation is worrying. We want to contain the war. We do not want the war to escalate. The Iranians must realize that they cannot help themselves by attacking their entire neighborhood,” the official said.

The official also said that future negotiations with Iran will no longer be limited to nuclear issues and that missiles will now be central to regional security issues.

UAE responds proactively

The UAE Ministry of Defense confirmed that the country’s air defenses are actively responding to missile and drone threats from Iran. The official added that preparations for national resilience, including food reserves and facilities, are underway and that the country’s economic fundamentals and tax system remain strong and attractive.

The official said French military support had also been “excellent”, with Rafale jets deployed from the beginning and participating in constant patrols to intercept missiles and drones.

Commitment to national defense and normalcy

The UAE leadership has emphasized that the defense of the country and its people is a top priority. “We will continue to defend our country and everyone here to slowly return to normal,” the official said.

Mohammed bin Zayed’s comments were the UAE’s first direct public statements since the conflict escalated, underscoring the seriousness of the threat and the country’s resolve to protect its citizens and maintain regional stability.

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Posted by:

Sonali Verma

Posted on:

March 7, 2026 21:42 IST

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