UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash has warned of prolonged Middle East uncertainty as a US-Iran peace agreement remains difficult. He stressed the need for stronger defence capabilities, international partnerships and sustained diplomacy
ABU DHABI: Dr Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, has warned that the Middle East could face prolonged instability as efforts to resolve the ongoing US-Iran conflict remain uncertain.
Speaking at the Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate on Monday, November 9, Gargash said a comprehensive political settlement between Washington and Tehran appeared difficult after more than eight months of conflict. He cautioned against assuming that the region would soon achieve lasting stability.
UAE calls for stronger defence capabilities
Gargash said the consequences of the conflict could persist for years, requiring the UAE to strengthen its defensive capabilities and maintain credible deterrence. He stressed the importance of deeper international security partnerships to protect the country’s interests amid changing regional threats.
Diplomatic engagement remains essential
The senior Emirati official reaffirmed that the UAE opposed the US war with Iran from the beginning. He emphasised that prolonged uncertainty would require sustained diplomatic engagement with Tehran and other regional and international partners. Gargash also acknowledged that some diplomatic interactions might require practical, interest-based approaches in the short term.
US-Iran settlement remains difficult
The warning comes as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict face significant challenges. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on November 8 that an immediate diplomatic breakthrough appeared unlikely. Gargash highlighted the importance of the UAE’s defence cooperation with Washington. He also thanked France, Israel, Greece, Egypt and India for their support and solidarity during the conflict.
Impact to Expect
The remarks highlight the UAE’s focus on balancing diplomacy with stronger national security measures. Continued regional uncertainty could influence defence cooperation, international relations and broader economic confidence. The UAE is expected to maintain diplomatic engagement while strengthening partnerships aimed at supporting regional stability.
