Daijiworld Media Network – Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, May 5: Tensions in the Gulf have sharply escalated after the United Arab Emirates said it intercepted 15 missiles and four drones allegedly launched by Iran, warning that it reserves the right to respond to what it termed “treacherous” attacks.
The strikes, reported on Monday, mark the first such incident since Iran and the United States agreed to a ceasefire on April 8, raising fears of renewed instability in the region.
According to UAE authorities, one drone strike triggered a large fire at the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone, while three Indian nationals were injured. Officials also claimed that an Iranian attack targeted an empty crude oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.
Iran has denied carrying out the attacks.
The developments have drawn strong reactions from across the world, with several countries condemning the strikes and expressing solidarity with the UAE.
Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain issued strong statements denouncing the attacks, calling them a violation of sovereignty and a threat to regional stability and maritime security. The Gulf Cooperation Council also termed the targeting of ships in the Strait of Hormuz as “piracy” and a serious threat to global supply lines.
Jordan joined the condemnation, describing the incident as a “dangerous escalation” and a breach of international law.
Western nations echoed similar concerns. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Iran to return to negotiations and end threats to the region, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the strikes and called for de-escalation.
French President Emmanuel Macron termed the attacks “unjustified and unacceptable”, reaffirming support for allies in the Gulf. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also called for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement to preserve the ceasefire.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the strikes as a violation of international law and stressed that regional security has direct implications for Europe.
The latest escalation has heightened concerns over the safety of key energy infrastructure and shipping lanes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes.
With both sides trading accusations and global powers calling for restraint, the situation remains volatile, raising fears of further escalation in the already fragile region.