Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the President of the United Arab Emirates, stated in his speech at the Arab Media Summit in Dubai that rebuilding trust between the UAE and Iran will take years. He emphasized that relations between the two neighboring countries must continue, but the challenges arising from recent attacks on Gulf countries have made the issue of trust a complex matter.
Crisis Management and Relationship Assessment
Gargash noted that the UAE is managing a crisis while also assessing the future of its relations with Iran. He said, "Ultimately, we are neighbors, and our relationship with Iran is very complex. The security system in the region has clearly collapsed, and there is a need to create new channels for understanding."
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This senior Emirati official outlined his country's approach in three areas. First, defending its sovereignty, and then flexibility in relations. Gargash also referred to the recent visit of the President of the UAE to Germany and added that the third element is the continuation of economic development amid the crisis. He emphasized, "We must strive to maintain our economic development and prosperity, and the President's visit to Germany was successful."
The Difference Between Relations and Trust
In response to a question about his comment regarding the loss of the UAE's trust in Iran, Gargash clarified that he deliberately distinguished between relations and trust. He stated, "Relations are a necessity, and we must engage with Iran based on open dialogue, a dialogue that goes beyond daily issues."
He also pointed out that building trust takes a long time and that it will take years to rebuild this trust. Gargash said, "The President of Iran has stated that Iran's aggression against the Gulf Cooperation Council countries was a major mistake." He described this action as a geopolitical mistake that has created a more complex situation for Iran and will impact the country's future.
Gargash further emphasized that Iran's use of its proxy militias is tied to aggressive actions, and as long as they threaten and attack their neighbors, they cannot negotiate for a new future. In response to a question about any independent financial or political action by the UAE against Iran, he stated that no such action has taken place and added, "We have only defended ourselves and will continue to defend ourselves while extending a hand of friendship."
Concerns About Regional Security
Gargash also responded to questions about recent attacks on Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that targeting sacred places such as Mecca is completely condemned and unacceptable. He noted, "The security and sovereignty of Saudi Arabia is part of our security, and the stability of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries is interconnected."
He continued to address concerns about the control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait by the Houthis, stating, "This is a concern for everyone and is not just a regional issue, but relates to the international economy."
Gargash did not set a timeline for future contacts with Tehran, stating, "The UAE did not choose this war, but has defended itself since the war began, and this is the beginning of the political dialogue that needs to take shape."
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