DUBAI, March 7 - The president of the United Arab Emirates made his first public remarks since Iran launched missiles at its Gulf neighbour, saying his country is in a time of war but remains strong and will not be taken lightly.
Speaking while visiting people who were injured in the strikes, his comments were later aired on Abu Dhabi TV. In a remark that underscored a posture of toughness, he said:
"The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh - we are no easy prey."
He framed the visit and his address as part of a duty to the nation, emphasizing a commitment to protect all who live within the federation. "We will carry out our duty towards our country, our people, and our residents who are also part of our family," he said.
The president, who is also the ruler of Abu Dhabi, reiterated the inclusive nature of that pledge by noting the makeup of the country he leads. The United Arab Emirates consists of seven emirates, including Dubai, and he said that the state would extend protection to everyone in the country.
His public comments come in the wake of a regional escalation described in brief as Iran launching missiles at its Gulf neighbour, and were delivered during a visit to those who sustained injuries in strikes. The broadcast on Abu Dhabi TV brought the remarks to a wider audience on Saturday following the visit on Friday.
The tone of the remarks emphasized resilience and obligation: positioning the leadership as attentive to wounded individuals while asserting that the nation will take necessary steps to safeguard its people and residents. The combination of a visible visit to the injured and a strongly worded declaration of resilience served to communicate both care for those affected and a warning to adversaries.
While the comments did not elaborate on specific responses or measures, they conveyed a clear message of national resolve and an assurance that the responsibilities of the state will include protection of all within its borders.
Clear summary: The UAE president, also ruler of Abu Dhabi, said the country is in a time of war but remains resilient, visited those injured in strikes, and vowed to protect all residents; his remarks, the first since Iran launched missiles at its Gulf neighbour, were aired on Abu Dhabi TV.