Iran Accuses UAE of Role in Military Operations as Rift Disrupts BRICS Talks

Mintesinot Niggusie

Iran has accused the United Arab Emirates of direct involvement in military operations against the country during a BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in New Delhi, according to Iranian state media, deepening diplomatic tensions in the Gulf.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi made the allegation during the meeting on Thursday, saying the UAE had participated in actions linked to the recent escalation between Iran, the United States and Israel.

“The truth is that the UAE was directly involved in the aggression against my country,” Araqchi was quoted as saying by Iranian state media. He added that he had avoided naming the UAE in his formal remarks “for the sake of unity”, but noted Abu Dhabi failed to condemn the initial attacks.

The remarks come amid broader regional tensions following a conflict that began on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, prompting Iranian missile and drone attacks on US bases and allied positions in Gulf countries.

Further complicating the diplomatic environment, media reports have alleged that the UAE conducted military operations against Iran in early April. The dispute has raised concerns over the outcome of the BRICS meeting, with officials warning that divisions could hinder a joint communiqué.