Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have issued a joint statement expressing their deep concern over the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. The two Gulf nations called for maximum “self-restraint” in order to prevent the region from plunging into the perils of war. The statement came after a phone conversation between Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and UAE President Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, following Iran’s recent missile and drone strikes on Israel.
Both leaders discussed the evolving situation in the Middle East and the potential threats to security and stability. The United States, Western allies, and Arab states have also urged Israel to exercise restraint, fearing a full-scale conflict that could engulf the entire region. The Saudi crown prince also received a phone call from the ruler of Qatar, emphasizing the need to address the escalating military situation.
While Saudi Arabia and the UAE have had disagreements in the past, they now recognize the importance of unity in the face of common threats. Both nations recently ended their three-year boycott of Qatar, signaling a growing willingness to prioritize regional stability over internal disputes. Concerns about the situation in Jordan, caught between an Israeli government seen as a threat to peace and forces allied with Iran, have further prompted the Gulf nations to reaffirm their commitment to Jordan’s defense and security.
The intensifying exchanges between Iran and Israel have put the entire region on edge, presenting both challenges and opportunities for Gulf leaders to overcome their differences and confront shared threats.
