Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the reported missile and drone attacks targeting civilian infrastructure in the United Arab Emirates, expressing full solidarity with its leadership and people.
The statement follows a drone strike on an energy facility in Fujairah that left three Indian nationals injured. The UAE has blamed Iran for the attack, while Iranian state media denied any pre-planned operation targeting Emirati oil facilities.
In a post on X, the prime minister extended Pakistan’s support to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, stating that the country stands firmly with the Emirati people during this difficult time.
“Pakistan stands firmly with our Emirati brothers and sisters as well as with the Government of the United Arab Emirates,” he said.
PM Shehbaz also stressed the need to uphold the ceasefire, warning that further escalation could destabilize the region. He urged all sides to prioritize dialogue and maintain diplomatic engagement to ensure lasting peace.
“It is essential that the ceasefire be respected to allow space for dialogue leading to enduring peace and stability,” he added.
The latest attacks have disrupted a period of relative calm following a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire between Washington and Tehran on April 8, which had paused weeks of intense conflict in the Gulf.
Fujairah, a key hub for UAE oil exports, has been targeted before. A previous drone strike in March hit the port, causing fires and temporarily halting some oil-loading operations. The port plays a crucial role in bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, enabling the UAE to continue exports despite regional tensions.
The renewed hostilities come amid rising tensions in the Gulf, with reports of explosions on merchant vessels, US military action against Iranian boats, and escalating risks around the Strait of Hormuz — a vital global energy route.
US President Donald Trump has announced a new initiative, “Project Freedom,” aimed at ensuring safe passage for ships through the strait, though details remain limited. Meanwhile, Iran has warned against military escalation, with its foreign minister stating that there is no military solution to the crisis and emphasising ongoing peace efforts mediated by Pakistan.
