By George Omagbemi Sylvester
The United Arab Emirates Armed Forces have been thrust into the centre of a widening regional conflict triggered by Iran’s retaliatory strikes against U.S. and Israeli targets, hitting multiple Gulf states including the UAE since February 28, 2026. The conflict escalated after coordinated U.S.–Israeli military action against Iranian positions, prompting Tehran to launch hundreds of ballistic missiles, drones and cruise missiles at the UAE and neighbouring nations.
In a Wednesday, March 11, 2026 editorial in The National, the UAE’s defence posture was framed not as aggression but as a necessary response to “unwanted and unwarranted war” imposed by regional hostilities. The piece highlighted that, aside from intercepting scores of incoming threats, Emirati servicemen and servicewomen continue to answer “the call of duty” under exceptionally challenging conditions.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and senior diplomats have simultaneously called for de‑escalation and diplomacy, asserting the country’s right to protect its sovereignty under international law while emphasising it does not seek to be drawn deeper into conflict.
The editorial’s focus on the dedication of UAE forces underscores a narrative of national resilience and unity as the Gulf nation navigates an increasingly volatile security environment.
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