The President of the United Arab Emirates issued a warning to Iran, stating that his country is not an easy victim and referred to Iran as an "enemy" after repeated attacks.
On 7 Mar 2026 GMT+7, President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) warned Iran that his country "is not an easy victim," calling Tehran an "enemy" following multiple Iranian attacks on the UAE since the conflict began the previous week.
President Al Nahyan, known as MBZ, said he "wants to send a message to the UAE’s enemies."
"The UAE is beautiful and a model to follow, but I tell you, do not be deceived by that image," MBZ said during a visit to a hospital treating civilians injured in Iranian attacks. "The UAE's hand is strong and can reach far. Our flesh is bitter, and we are not easy victims to be chewed."
MBZ’s statement, the first since the conflict began, was released shortly after the UAE’s air defense systems countered Iranian missile threats, while the Iranian president recently said attacks on Gulf countries would cease if Iran was not attacked first.
"We are fulfilling our duty to serve the nation, our people, and all residents among us. May God protect the UAE, its people, and everyone in the country and grant them security and safety," MBZ added. "I promise you that what is to come will show we are stronger."
Since the conflict erupted on 28 Feb, the UAE has reported more than 1,200 attacks from Iran, including missiles and drones, resulting in at least 3 deaths and over 100 injuries, causing damage to infrastructure in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Most recently, on Saturday 7 Mar 2026 GMT+7, the UAE reported responding to Iranian "missile and drone" attacks, despite Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stating earlier that day Iran would not attack neighboring countries "unless attacked first."
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