Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan discussed Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes across the Gulf during their first phone call since a public disagreement in December. According to the UAE state news agency WAM, the two leaders condemned what they described as blatant Iranian attacks and warned of a dangerous escalation threatening regional stability. The Saudi crown prince expressed full solidarity with the UAE and pledged support for any protective measures.
In a separate call, Qatar’s Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Mohammed bin Salman urged an immediate halt to military escalation and a return to dialogue to safeguard regional security.
The crisis follows coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets, prompting Tehran to retaliate against US bases and Gulf states. The United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk called for restraint, warning that further violence would bring death and destruction.
Russia cautioned that the strikes risked a humanitarian and possible radiological catastrophe, while China demanded an immediate halt to military action and respect for sovereignty.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed the need to ensure nuclear safety. Emmanuel Macron called for an urgent UN Security Council meeting, as Britain, France and Germany condemned Iran’s retaliation.
Other regional actors voiced alarm. Egypt warned of grave risks to Arab stability, while Turkey urged all parties to cease hostilities. Jordan pledged to defend its interests but called for de escalation.
The International Committee of the Red Cross warned of a dangerous chain reaction, as the African Union appealed for urgent dialogue to prevent broader instability.
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