The United Arab Emirates has categorically dismissed reports claiming that billions of dollars were transferred from the Gulf nation to Iran, including allegations involving a $3 billion payment.
According to Gulf News, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the claims as "entirely false and unfounded," saying that no frozen Iranian funds had been released, transferred, or facilitated through the country.
UAE rejects media reports
The denial came after reports by international media outlets alleged that Abu Dhabi had agreed to unlock billions of dollars for Tehran as part of efforts linked to regional de-escalation and broader negotiations involving Iran and the United States.
Responding to the claims, the UAE foreign ministry said the reports lacked any factual basis and urged media organisations to rely on official sources when reporting on sensitive geopolitical matters.
"The United Arab Emirates has categorically denied reports published by certain international media outlets alleging the transfer of funds from the UAE to the Islamic Republic of Iran, including allegations concerning USD 3 billion," the ministry said in a statement cited by Gulf News.
Claims centred on frozen Iranian assets
The reports had suggested that part of the funds may have originated from Iranian assets frozen under international sanctions. Some unnamed sources cited in those reports claimed that an initial tranche of more than $3 billion had already been made available to Tehran.
However, UAE authorities rejected the allegations and reiterated that no such transactions had taken place through the country.
Call for accuracy in reporting
The foreign ministry also called on media outlets to exercise caution and accuracy, warning against the circulation of unverified information.
It urged journalists and news organisations to "refrain from publishing or circulating unverified information and unfounded allegations," according to the statement reported by Gulf News.
The clarification comes amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran, Gulf states and the United States.
This development underscores the importance of relying on verified information in an era of rapid news dissemination, especially concerning sensitive geopolitical issues that can impact international relations and regional stability.
