UAE Urges Iran to 'Go Back to Your Senses' After Regional Strikes Following Khamenei's Death
The United Arab Emirates has issued a stark warning to Iran, urging the Tehran leadership to "go back to your senses" in the wake of widespread military retaliation across the Middle East. This appeal comes after Iran launched strikes on multiple locations, including Dubai, its international airports, and other key sites, following the killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a massive joint US-Israel military operation.
UAE President's Direct Message to Iran
UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, through his envoy, addressed the Khamenei-less Iranian regime with a clear warning: "Go back to your senses, your war is not with your neighbours." This statement underscores the UAE's concern over regional stability as violence escalates.
Dubai Caught in Crossfire: Severe Attacks Reported
Dubai experienced one of its most severe days in decades, becoming caught in the crossfire between Iran and joint US-Israel forces. The city faced multiple attacks, with Iran reportedly targeting Dubai International Airport, the iconic Burj Al Arab, and other prominent locations. In the airport attack, four people were injured, and damage was caused inside a passenger terminal, though officials described it as minor and quickly contained.
Additionally, local authorities reported that four people were injured in a fire on Palm Jumeirah, the man-made island known for its luxury hotels and resorts. Parts of a missile, either intercepted or knocked off course, struck a high-end hotel on the island, highlighting the widespread impact of the strikes.
Iran's Retaliatory Strikes Across the Region
Iran's military actions extended beyond the UAE, with retaliatory strikes reported in multiple Middle Eastern countries:
- Kuwait: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that the American naval base in the Abdullah Mubarak area of Kuwait was hit by four ballistic missiles and 12 drones, destroying all infrastructure and causing casualties among American personnel. An MST-class combat support ship in the Indian Ocean was also targeted by Iranian Qadr 380 missiles.
- Iraq: A US base in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region, was struck by Iranian attacks.
- Bahrain: Bahrain's interior ministry reported a drone strike on Bahrain International Airport, resulting in material damage but no casualties.
- Qatar and Bahrain: Explosions were heard in Doha and Manama, with thick black smoke rising over Doha following several loud blasts, as confirmed by AFP reporters.
Background: Operation Epic Fury and Operation Lion's Roar
The escalation stems from Operation Epic Fury, a major US military campaign under President Donald Trump that achieved its primary objective: the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in strikes carried out early Sunday in Tehran. Initial reports indicate that the operation targeted more than just Khamenei, with his daughter and grandchild also reportedly among those killed in attacks on key locations across the capital.
This was not solely a US effort; Israel, led by Benjamin Netanyahu, partnered in the strikes under Operation Lion's Roar, showcasing its military capabilities in the coordinated assault.
Regional Implications and Calls for Restraint
The UAE's plea for Iran to "go back to your senses" reflects growing fears of a broader regional conflict. With attacks spanning from the Gulf to Iraq, the situation threatens to destabilize the entire Middle East, prompting calls for de-escalation from neighbouring nations and international observers.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of Khamenei's death and the subsequent retaliatory strikes, the focus remains on preventing further violence and restoring calm in an already volatile area.
