The recent Iranian attacks on the UAE and neighboring countries represent a blatant violation of international law. These violent acts not only threaten regional stability but also undermine the foundations of diplomatic relations. High-level discussions between Emirati and British officials have underscored the necessity of condemning such actions and reaffirming the importance of upholding international norms.
Significant Diplomatic Conversations
On April 18, 2026, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, received Evette Cooper, the UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, during her inaugural official visit to the UAE. Both ministers unanimously condemned the unprovoked Iranian attacks targeting the UAE and neighboring nations, which have endangered civilian lives and infrastructure. Such actions clearly violate sovereignty and territorial integrity and represent a serious breach of international law, particularly the United Nations Charter.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The discussions not only focused on condemning Iranian aggression but also emphasized the historically rooted relationship between the UAE and the United Kingdom. Both nations are committed to fostering regional stability and promoting international cooperation. This meeting followed earlier talks held by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on April 9.
A framework for enhancing cooperation was agreed upon, covering a wide array of sectors, including foreign affairs, defense, trade, investment, artificial intelligence, and energy transition. Additionally, judicial cooperation and efforts to combat illicit financing were discussed. This ambitious framework aims to strengthen sustainable, long-term bilateral partnerships and collaborative resilience capabilities.
International Security Concerns
The ministers highlighted the importance of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026), which condemns Iran’s practices and threats aimed at closing the Strait of Hormuz and disrupting maritime navigation. They stressed the necessity of ensuring freedom of navigation in the strait, free from charges, in strict accordance with international law, notably the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
In light of the Iranian threats and attacks on vessels, the ministers welcomed the International Maritime Organization’s resolution passed on March 19, 2026, which condemned such actions that pose a significant risk to lives and threaten maritime safety and the marine environment.
Global Diplomatic Engagements
Additionally, they welcomed a recent initiative by the UK and France, announced on April 17, aimed at reinforcing the principles of freedom of navigation, safeguarding international law, and ensuring global economic stability and energy security within a broad international coalition.
Regarding humanitarian crises, both ministers condemned the recent attacks in Sudan by conflicting parties against civilians and humanitarian workers, affirming their responsibility to bring an end to the conflict. They emphasized the urgent need for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery across Sudan. The political nature of humanitarian efforts should be wholly rejected.
The ministers underlined that Sudan’s future should be determined by its civilians through an independent, civil-led process that meets the aspirations of the Sudanese people for a civilian-led government. They also welcomed recent meetings between the Quad Group, the UK, and the European Union, including those held at the Berlin Conference, supporting peace efforts in Sudan.
Reiterating their steadfast commitment to supporting a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine according to the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the ministers praised the UAE’s mediation efforts that facilitated prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia, totaling 6,305 individuals since the conflict began. Discussions on how to bolster recovery efforts in Ukraine were also held.
As both nations look ahead, they expressed their intentions to continue closely collaborating and enhancing bilateral relations in the future.