The United Arab Emirates has called for an immediate de-escalation of hostilities with Iran, warning that continued attacks risk destabilising the wider Gulf region and undermining years of economic progress.

In remarks published Tuesday by German newspaper Handelsblatt, UAE Ambassador to Germany, Ahmed Alattar, said the country remains committed to diplomacy but will exercise its right to self-defence under international law. He stressed that the UAE is working closely with the United States to prevent further escalation.

Tensions have intensified over the past two weeks, with Iran launching a series of airstrikes targeting Gulf states. The UAE, in particular, has faced repeated attacks, raising concerns about regional security and the safety of civilian infrastructure.

According to Alattar, Iranian strikes have hit residential areas, airports and other non-military facilities, a move he described as deliberate and deeply concerning. He reiterated that the UAE has maintained a clear position against allowing its territory to be used as a launchpad for attacks against Iran.

The crisis has been further inflamed by statements from Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who has urged Gulf nations to shut down U.S. military bases within their borders, warning of continued attacks if they fail to comply.

Despite the escalating rhetoric and violence, Alattar said the UAE remains in a defensive posture and continues to pursue diplomatic channels to resolve the conflict.

The ambassador also cautioned that the ongoing confrontation threatens the UAE’s long-standing reputation as a stable hub for global business, tourism and logistics in the Middle East an image the country has spent decades cultivating.

While uncertainty looms, he expressed cautious optimism that a negotiated settlement could still be reached, provided all parties commit to de-escalation.