Anwar Gargash, diplomatic advisor to the UAE President, emphasized that his country does not seek a new round of military confrontations in the region during the 22nd edition of the "Manama Dialogue" organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies in Bahrain.
Security Message for Gulf Countries
Gargash pointed out the interconnection between the security of Gulf countries, noting that anything affecting any of these countries will also impact the UAE. He also stressed the need to restore maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz to its status before February 28.
Prepared for the Worst-Case Scenario
Anwar Gargash also stated that the security of Gulf countries forms an interconnected system, and regional stability requires avoiding escalation of tensions and ensuring freedom of navigation in maritime passages. He added: "We do not seek a new round of military conflict in the region. The start of another round of confrontations will not serve the interests of the region."
Gargash further stated: "We hope for a diplomatic opening between the two parties." He also mentioned that the region's entry into another round of conflicts is not in its interests, but his country is prepared for the worst-case scenario.
Gargash's remarks come amid rising concerns about confrontation between Iran and the United States. The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its commitment to diplomatic solutions in a statement issued last week and called for intensified regional and international efforts to prevent further escalation of tensions.
In mid-June, Tehran and Washington signed a memorandum to halt military conflicts, but shortly after, attacks resumed. These confrontations led to a near halt of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a main passage for transporting oil, petroleum products, and liquefied natural gas to global markets. Following this situation, fuel prices have increased in most countries around the world.
Read more: Meeting of senior military officials from Gulf countries in Manama · Dialogue between the foreign ministers of Kuwait and Qatar regarding regional developments
