Iran warns US, UAE of no military solution as Hormuz tensions spike

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared early Tuesday that “there is no military solution to a political crisis,” warning the United States and the United Arab Emirates against further escalation in the Strait of Hormuz. “Events in Hormuz make clear that there’s no military solution to a political crisis,” Araghchi wrote on X, adding: “As talks are making progress with Pakistan’s gracious effort, the U.S. should be wary of being dragged back into quagmire by ill-wishers. So should the UAE.” Araghchi also rejected Washington’s “Project Freedom” plan to escort merchant ships out of the strait, calling it “Project Deadlock.”

Attacks on UAE

Iran launched retaliatory attacks targeting the UAE on Monday—the first such incidents since a ceasefire between Tehran and Washington took effect last month. The UAE later reported a fourth wave of missiles and drones launched from Iran, with air defense systems intercepting 15 missiles and four drones. A fire broke out at the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone, a key energy hub on the UAE’s eastern coast, after it was hit by an Iranian drone. No casualties were immediately reported.

Regional context

Tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, prompting Iranian retaliation against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, as well as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A Pakistan-mediated ceasefire took effect on April 8, but talks in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting agreement. The truce was later extended by President Trump without a deadline.