UAE president, NATO secretary general discuss regional security concerns

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed held a phone call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to discuss the recent military escalation in the region and its wider implications for international security, maritime trade, and the global economy, according to WAM.

The discussion focused on recent attacks in the region, attributed to Iranian-backed groups, targeting civilians, critical infrastructure, and strategic facilities.

The NATO Secretary General strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as violations of sovereignty, international law, and the UN Charter, while praising the UAE’s measures to protect its citizens and maintain stability.

In parallel, the UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs engaged in calls with several international counterparts, including Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, Vietnam’s Foreign Minister Lê Hoài Trung, Mauritania’s Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Merzoug, and the Netherlands’ Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen.

These discussions addressed the escalating missile attacks in the region, highlighting their potential to destabilize regional and global security, disrupt energy supplies, and threaten economic stability. The UAE’s leadership emphasized the legitimate right of all affected nations to defend their sovereignty and protect their citizens under international law.

The UAE Deputy Prime Minister also expressed gratitude for the international support and solidarity, reaffirming that residents and visitors across the UAE remain safe. The ministers highlighted the importance of continued dialogue and diplomacy to resolve tensions and ensure long-term regional and international security.