Modi speaks to UAE Prez, condemns Iranian attack
Says support de-escalation, regional peace, security and stability
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and strongly condemned Iran’s recent attacks on the Gulf nation, expressing solidarity with its leadership and people amid escalating regional tensions.
In a message posted on social media, Modi said he conveyed his condolences over the loss of lives and reaffirmed India’s steadfast support for the UAE.
“Spoke with President of the UAE, my brother Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Strongly condemned the attacks on the UAE and condoled the loss of lives. India stands in solidarity with the UAE in these difficult times,” the PM said.
He also thanked Sheikh Mohamed for ensuring the wellbeing of the large Indian community residing in the UAE. The Gulf country is home to millions of Indians, making it one of the largest expatriate populations in the region.
Reiterating India’s position, Modi said, “We support de-escalation, regional peace, security and stability.”
India and the UAE share close strategic, economic and people-to-people ties.
The Prime Minister’s remarks came as Iran on Sunday launched fresh missile and drone strikes targeting United States military assets across the Gulf, triggering explosions in Dubai, Doha and Manama and deepening fears of a widening regional conflict following the killing of its supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain activated air defence systems as multiple blasts were reported in cities hosting major US military installations. Airspace restrictions and temporary flight suspensions were imposed after smoke was seen rising near key urban and aviation zones, including areas close to Dubai International Airport.
According to the UAE Ministry of Defence, Iranian attacks since February 28 involved 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles and more than 540 drones, most of which were intercepted. However, several drones struck civilian locations, causing casualties and property damage.
The ministry reported three deaths involving foreign nationals and at least 58 people sustaining minor injuries, including residents of multiple nationalities — among them an Indian citizen — largely due to falling debris from intercepted projectiles.
Iranian officials maintained that the strikes were aimed at American military infrastructure across the Gulf, including facilities in Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE. Explosions were reported near the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Manama, while missile activity was detected around bases used by US forces in Qatar and the Emirates.
