The key facts
- Anwar Gargash reaffirmed the UAE's course toward dialogue and political solutions
- WSJ reported that Gulf states were warned to prepare for possible strikes on Iran after November 3
- Qatar handed Iran a new draft deal on a permanent settlement
A warning amid escalation rumors
Diplomatic adviser to the UAE president Dr. Anwar Gargash warned that 'wars lead only to further crises,' while diplomacy remains 'the most effective path' to ensuring security and stability in the region. The statement was made on Wednesday, October 28, in a post on the social network X, in response to 'growing speculation about possible escalation and confrontation.' According to Gargash, the UAE's approach 'remains firm and clear, based on wisdom, balance, and the priority of dialogue and political solutions' (The National).
What lies behind the warning
The comment came after The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump administration had warned a number of Gulf states to prepare for a possible resumption of the US military campaign against Iran after the midterm elections on November 3. According to the outlet's sources, Trump is leaning toward a short but intense wave of strikes — possibly targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, missile and drone arsenals, and critical infrastructure — although no final decision has been made and diplomatic efforts continue.
A parallel diplomatic track
At the same time, Reuters reports, citing a source, that Qatari mediators presented Iran with a new draft deal on Sunday aimed at achieving a permanent settlement of the war. Tehran is reviewing the proposal and is expected to send a response by the end of the week.
Context of the conflict
The war began on February 28; at its peak, Iran struck the UAE and other Gulf states with ballistic missiles and drones, targeting civilian infrastructure as well, including energy facilities and airports. The UAE was the hardest-hit country: more than 550 ballistic missiles and 2,265 drones were fired at it, most of which were intercepted or destroyed before reaching their targets. In June, when the US and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding intended to pave the way to a final peace settlement, a ceasefire began. However, in early July Trump declared the ceasefire and the memorandum 'over' after new Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz and retaliatory American strikes. In recent weeks, both sides have signaled that they are preparing for a resumption of hostilities.
