UAE Condemns Iranian Attacks on Energy Facilities as Gulf Tensions Escalate
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – The United Arab Emirates has strongly condemned what it calls a “terrorist attack” by Iran targeting the Habshan gas facility and the Bab oil field, marking a dangerous escalation in the rapidly intensifying conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
UAE air defenses successfully intercepted incoming missiles, preventing direct damage and reporting no injuries, according to the AD Media Office. However, operations at both facilities were temporarily suspended as authorities assess the situation. The incident underscores the growing vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure in the region.
The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement characterizing the attack as a violation of international law and a “dangerous escalation.” Officials warned that targeting vital infrastructure threatens not only national sovereignty but also regional and global stability.
This attack follows a recent pattern of escalating tensions. Israel recently struck Iran’s South Pars gas field, prompting a warning from Tehran that Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar’s oil and gas facilities could be targeted. The UAE had previously condemned Israel’s strike, emphasizing the threat to global energy security and calling for restraint from all parties.
The Habshan complex is one of the world’s largest gas processing facilities, and the Bab field is a key oil field. Any disruption to these facilities has the potential to impact global energy markets. Analysts warn that continued attacks could lead to supply chain issues, price increases, and market volatility. The Gulf region is a major energy corridor for Europe, Asia, India, and East Asia.
The UAE reaffirmed its right to take necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and national interests. This condemnation comes amid a broader wave of diplomatic backlash across the Gulf, as multiple countries react to Iran’s expanding strikes on energy assets.
The situation is evolving rapidly. In late February, the US and Israel conducted strikes on Iranian military and energy-linked sites. This was followed by retaliatory missile and drone attacks by Iran across the Gulf in early March. The targeting of energy infrastructure represents a shift toward economic warfare, with deliberate attempts to maximize impact.
The UAE’s response highlights the seriousness of the moment, with critical infrastructure targeted and regional tensions escalating. The attack serves as a stark warning of how close the region is to a catastrophic energy event.