The United Arab Emirates has announced the suspension, until further notice, of all trade relations and financial transactions with Iran, after Emirati authorities detected the launch of two Iranian ballistic missiles directed at its territory.
The decision was announced by Afra Al Hameli, Director of the Strategic Communications Department at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who cited the deteriorating regional security environment as the basis for the measure. “In light of regional tensions that undermine regional and international peace and security, all trade exchanges and financial transactions with Iran have been suspended until further notice,” she stated.
Despite the suspension, Al Hameli reaffirmed the Emirates’ commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and regional integration, which the country regards as essential instruments for promoting peace, stability, and prosperity across the region.
The announcement followed a statement by the UAE Ministry of Defence confirming that air defence systems had detected two ballistic missiles launched from Iran. According to authorities, one projectile fell outside Emirati territorial waters, while the second struck within those waters.
In a subsequent statement, Emirati authorities said that after analysing available data, they concluded the missiles had been targeting maritime traffic, without providing further details. The Ministry of Defence also affirmed that the country is prepared to respond to any threat to its security.
Iran, however, rejected the accusation. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei described as false the claim that Tehran had launched missiles against the UAE, characterising it as damaging to regional trust and collective security efforts.
According to the Notícias ao Minuto news portal, the UAE had in recent weeks already denounced Iranian attacks on vessels belonging to its state-owned oil company as they transited the Strait of Hormuz. The country has also been subject to threats from pro-Iranian militias operating in Iraq.
The escalation is unfolding against the backdrop of a prolonged conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. US President Donald Trump stated that there are currently no talks under way or planned with Tehran, one day after the expiry of a 60-day deadline established under a memorandum of understanding signed on 17 June to negotiate a peace agreement.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/2026/08/19/mundo/medio-oriente-eau-suspendem-relacoes-comerciais-com-irao-apos-lancamento-de-misseis/
