From the Liveblog of
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
UAE seems to push back on report it’s considering joining strikes on Iran
Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief
The UAE appears to push back on a report that is considering joining the US and Israel in striking Iran.
Axios reported earlier Tuesday that Abu Dhabi is considering the unprecedented step in response to Iranian drone and missile strikes on its country.
Shortly after the report, the UAE issued a statement through its WAM state news agency asserting that it “has not taken any decision to alter its defensive posture in response to the repeated Iranian attacks.”
“The UAE reiterates that it is not a party to this war and has not permitted the use of its territory, territorial waters, or airspace for any attack against Iran, consistent with its long-standing policy of good neighborliness, de-escalation, and its firm commitment to the Charter of the United Nations,” the statement says.
“Furthermore, the UAE underscores that it retains its legitimate right to self-defense, as recognized under international law and the Charter of the United Nations,” it continues.
“The UAE further stresses the importance of journalistic responsibility and the need to rely on official, credible sources before publishing or circulating inaccurate or misleading reports,” the statement adds, while notably not denying the Axios report outright.
The Times of Israel Community.