Iran has warned people to leave areas near three major ports in the United Arab Emirates — Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah Port — as tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel continue to rise.
According to the international news agency Associated Press (AP), the warning comes as the conflict enters its third week and signals that infrastructure in neighboring Gulf countries could face potential risks.
Iran Accuses U.S. of Using UAE Facilities
Iranian authorities have accused the United States of using port facilities, docks, and logistical areas in the UAE to launch attacks against Kharg Island, which hosts Iran’s main oil export terminal in the Persian Gulf.
Following these accusations, Iran urged people to leave areas believed to be linked to American military activity. So far, there have been no confirmed reports of direct attacks on Jebel Ali Port in Dubai or Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi after the warning was issued.
However, reports indicated that debris from an intercepted Iranian drone may have fallen near oil infrastructure in Fujairah, causing a fire in the area.
Iranian Foreign Minister Makes Allegations
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in an interview that the United States carried out attacks on Kharg Island and Abu Musa Island from locations near Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai in the UAE.
Araghchi said Iran intends to avoid targeting populated areas and added that the country is taking precautions to minimize harm to civilians. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has not issued an official response to Iran’s claims.
UAE Calls for Restraint
Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, said in a social media statement that the country has the right to defend itself but is prioritizing prudence and restraint during the current tensions.
He said the UAE is closely monitoring the situation while working to prevent further escalation in the Gulf region.
Missile and Drone Activity Reported in Gulf
Since the conflict began, Iran has launched hundreds of missiles and drones toward the Gulf region, according to international reports. Iran says the attacks are aimed at U.S. military assets, although some projectiles have reportedly landed near civilian infrastructure such as airports and oil facilities.
Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump said American forces had destroyed military structures on Kharg Island and warned that Iranian oil infrastructure could be targeted if Iran interferes with shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s Joint Military Command has warned that any further attacks on its oil infrastructure would lead to retaliatory strikes against oil, economic, and energy facilities linked to the United States in the region.
