UAE condemns Israel’s military targeting of Iran
Israeli airforce launched wide-scale attack on Iranian military, nuclear facilities
ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has condemned in the strongest terms Israel’s military targeting of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and expressed its deep concern over the ongoing escalation and its repercussions on regional security and stability.
In a statement on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) stressed the importance of exercising the utmost self-restraint and judgment to mitigate risks and prevent the expansion of the conflict.
The Ministry reaffirmed the UAE’s position that enhancing dialogue, adhering to international law, and respecting the sovereignty of states constitute essential principles for resolving the current crises.
UAE Condemns in the Strongest Terms Israel’s Military Targeting of the Islamic Republic of Iranhttps://t.co/RJ4HEpmXWm pic.twitter.com/Pb7k5TQF0g
— MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) June 13, 2025
The UAE emphasised the need to resolve disputes through diplomatic means rather than confrontation and escalation, and called on the United Nations Security Council to take urgent and necessary measures to achieve a ceasefire, and to reinforce international peace and security.
Israel, Iran tensions
In a move Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called “decisive,” the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched “Operation Rising Lion” early Friday, targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, ballistic missile sites, and senior military officials.
Massive explosions were reported in Tehran, including at the Natanz uranium enrichment site. Israel said its goal was to eliminate what it described as an “imminent threat” of Iran developing nuclear weapons, claiming Tehran was nearing the “point of no return.”
Over 200 Israeli fighter jets struck approximately 100 targets, according to IDF officials. In response, Iran launched around 100 drones at Israel. The IDF stated it was working to intercept the UAVs.
Iran’s state media reported that Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Hossein Salami was killed in the strikes, along with two nuclear scientists. Civilian casualties were also reported, with at least 50 wounded – many of them women and children.
Israel has declared a state of emergency, deploying tens of thousands of soldiers across borders in anticipation of retaliatory attacks. Defence Minister Israel Katz warned of an “immediate” threat to civilian areas, while residents across the country were advised to remain close to shelters.