A new phase in the Gulf crisis is unfolding after the United Arab Emirates reported intercepting 15 missiles and four drone attacks on Monday. These strikes mark the first major incident since Iran and the United States agreed to a ceasefire on April 8. The UAE warned that it reserves the right to respond to these “irresponsible” attacks—attributed to Iran—which have sparked international alarm, prompted diplomatic condemnation, and heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.
The UAE reported intercepting multiple waves of missiles and drones for several consecutive days this week. Some strikes targeted strategic oil infrastructure and coastal facilities, including the Fujairah energy hub. According to UAE authorities, a drone strike triggered a large fire at the Fujairah Petroleum Industries Zone and injured three Indian nationals. Officials added that an empty crude oil tanker, owned by a state energy company, was also struck while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The renewed attacks have prompted deep concern from several governments, regional blocs, and the United Nations. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states—including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain—denounced the strikes as a “dangerous escalation.” Meanwhile, Western powers, such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and Canada, called on Iran to de-escalate immediately and return to diplomacy.
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The crisis has also revived broader international anxiety over Iran’s regional role. On Tuesday, the UN strongly denounced the attacks on both the UAE and vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, warning of the risk of renewed hostilities.
“We are deeply concerned that multiple missiles and drones were launched at the United Arab Emirates on May 4, which reportedly resulted in three people injured and caused a fire at an oil facility in the Fujairah oil industry zone,” UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said at a news conference.
EU Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen denounced the attacks on X, stating: “These attacks are unacceptable and constitute a clear violation of sovereignty and international law. Security in the region has direct consequences for Europe.”
The African Union also expressed deep concern over the escalation and the disruption of maritime traffic. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, noted that the consequences are immediate for African economies, leading to rising fuel prices and heightened economic vulnerability. He called for an immediate cessation of attacks and full respect for the freedom of navigation.
President Donald Trump stated earlier Monday that the U.S. would assist stranded vessels under “Project Freedom.” He later reported that U.S. forces struck seven Iranian fast boats in the Strait of Hormuz as efforts continue to guide ships through the largely closed passage. Tensions continue to escalate as the United States and Iran exchange accusations of ceasefire violations, casting doubt on the stability of the April 8 agreement.
