Summary
- Iran has warned the UAE against allowing attacks from its territory.
- The dispute centers on Abu Musa and Greater Tunb islands.
- Rising regional conflict has heightened tensions across the Gulf.
NAIROBI, Kenya- Iran has issued a strong warning to the United Arab Emirates, cautioning against any attacks launched from its territory targeting disputed Gulf islands.
The warning signals rising tensions in the region as conflict continues to escalate across the Middle East.
Iran issues direct threat over disputed Gulf islands
Iran’s military command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, warned that any aggression originating from UAE territory against the islands of Abu Musa and Greater Tunb would trigger a heavy response.
The statement, carried by Tasnim news agency, specifically mentioned potential strikes targeting Ras Al Khaimah.
The islands, controlled by Iran but claimed by the UAE, have remained a long-standing flashpoint between the two nations.
Strategic location raises global stakes
The disputed islands lie near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.
Roughly a fifth of global oil supply passes through the strait, making any instability in the area a major global concern.
Recent disruptions to marine traffic have been linked to the widening regional conflict.
Regional war fuels tensions and accusations
The tensions come amid an ongoing regional war that began with US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.
Since then, Iran has accused Gulf states of allowing US forces to use their territories to launch attacks.
In response, Iran has carried out missile and drone strikes targeting what it describes as US-linked interests in the region.
However, Gulf states, including the UAE, have repeatedly denied the claims, insisting they will not allow their airspace or territory to be used against Iran.
