Rebuilding trust with Iran could take several years: Gargash

Dr. Anwar Gargash, the Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, stated that the UAE leadership remains dedicated to ensuring the nation’s stability, sovereignty, and protection of its interests. He underscored that the UAE aims to maintain the momentum of its economic growth, a commitment mirrored in the UAE President’s visit to Germany. 

During a keynote address at the 24th Arab Media Summit, Gargash remarked that rebuilding trust with Iran would require many years due to past aggressive actions against the UAE. He highlighted the necessity of differentiating between maintaining diplomatic relations with Iran and the complex process of restoring trust. 

Gargash also pointed to the meeting between Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and the Iranian President on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. The discussion led to an agreement to “turn the page and move toward the future,” despite not reaching consensus on all points discussed. 

Gargash stressed that Iran would not succeed in changing the status quo in the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring the critical need for maritime security and regional stability. 

He also indicated that any form of aggression towards Saudi Arabia is intolerable, asserting that the Kingdom’s security is vital to the UAE’s security. These comments were made during his participation in the 24th Arab Media Summit, where he discussed the recent geopolitical developments in the Gulf region and their impact on regional security and stability.