UAE a pivotal mediator in preventing war in the region

A historic war between Iran and Israel may have just been averted in the Middle East. Iran occupies a strategic location between Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East, sharing borders with seven neighboring countries and having access to ten maritime nations. An escalation of tensions involving Iran could destabilise the region, jeopardising both regional and global peace.

Israel is facing heightened instability from both its northern and southern borders. In the north, tensions are rising with Iran’s proxy, Hezbollah, as Israel conducts operations targeting southern Lebanon. Simultaneously, Israel’s southern region is experiencing increasing attacks from Houthi forces. The Houthis have previously escalated their activities in the Bab Al Mandeb Strait in the Red Sea, prompting US military intervention when American interests were threatened. Although that intervention has concluded, it could be reinitiated if the Houthis perceive a threat to the Iranian political regime. Considering both the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab Al Mandeb Strait, it is clear that international shipping routes could be significantly impacted, potentially leading to a catastrophic situation for the global economy.

Multiple actors are working to mediate the situation. President Vladimir Putin is personally leading Russia’s mediation efforts to underscore the seriousness of the crisis, despite Moscow’s continued focus on the war in Ukraine. Turkey plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in Iran due to their shared border. However, both Russia and Turkey face challenges in their approaches; Western countries, particularly the US and Europe, do not trust Moscow, while Ankara’s relations with Tel Aviv are frail.

The de-escalation efforts led by the Arabian Gulf countries, particularly the United Arab Emirates (UAE), represent the most reliable path forward. The Gulf states possess diplomatic advantages due to their geographic proximity, financial connections, and stronger relations with Iran—factors that distant actors cannot replicate.

The UAE is playing a significant and vital role in diplomatic efforts. Several recent Emirati initiatives may be crucial in de-escalating and resolving current confrontations. A notable example is UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s direct call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. This move signals that the UAE positions itself as a neutral force in the conflict, supporting regional stability without taking sides.

The UAE’s strategy is based on the understanding that the consequences of the Iran-Israel conflict will impact countries beyond their borders. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that the war’s effects will extend beyond both Iran and Israel. His clear assessment highlights the significant implications for both regional and international contexts. The UAE enjoys a unique diplomatic position, having established strong relationships with Iran, Israel, and the United States, making it well-suited for mediation efforts.

What solidifies the UAE’s narrative is its tangible actions. For instance, waiving visa overstay fines for Iranian nationals during this difficult period reflects the UAE’s positive intentions. These measures build trust and enhance the UAE’s reputation as a reliable actor committed to peaceful solutions. It is clear that the UAE prioritises humanitarian considerations, as this is a crucial factor in persuading the conflicting parties of its commitment to achieving peace.

The UAE maintains its position as a key player in conflict prevention through its diplomatic adaptability, established regional authority, and effective communication methods. The UAE has consistently demonstrated that peaceful solutions through dialogue are essential for achieving long-lasting peace, rather than resorting to confrontation. Through its special diplomatic relationships, the UAE can pave the way for a future where diplomacy takes precedence over destruction.

The UAE’s initiatives currently provide a crucial pathway for peace during this critical moment. Its commitment to peaceful de-escalation, alongside humanitarian principles and balanced diplomacy, offers the world a promising hope for preventing a potentially catastrophic war and establishing effective conflict resolution methods in our modern globalised world.

Mohamed Aldhuhoori is Senior Researcher in American Affairs, Director, Advanced Political Studies Department, TRENDS Research & Advisory