Iran Has ‘No Problem With UAE’: Masoud Pezeshkian Says Tehran’s Issue Is US Bases in the Region

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian clarified Tehran’s diplomatic position on Saturday, stating that Iran maintains no hostiles issues with the United Arab Emirates or neighboring nations, but firmly opposes the presence of United States military bases on their territory. Speaking in an exclusive interview with India Today on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi, Pezeshkian emphasized that Iran views Gulf states as regional "brothers," while accusing Washington of using foreign soil to launch strikes against Iranian targets amid broader West Asia tensions.

Pezeshkian Distinguishes Between Gulf Neighbors and American Forces

In his remarks, President Pezeshkian sought to draw a clear line between diplomatic relations with neighboring Gulf nations and Iran's ongoing confrontation with the United States. He stressed that Tehran’s security concerns stem entirely from foreign military infrastructure stationed across the border. "We have no problems with the UAE. We have no problem with any of the regional countries," Pezeshkian stated. "We have a problem with the American bases located in these countries and from which they are attacking our country." ‘Iran Won’t Surrender to Oppression’: Masoud Pezeshkian Accuses US of Sowing Division at BRICS Summit.

He cautioned neighboring governments against allowing third parties to conduct military operations from their territory, asserting that US forces have targeted Iranian personnel, commanders, and infrastructure from these installations. Despite these concerns, Pezeshkian reiterated Iran's commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic ties with Abu Dhabi and broader Gulf neighbors.

Diplomatic Engagements at the 18th BRICS Summit

The comments came during high-level side diplomacy at the New Delhi summit, where Pezeshkian met directly with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The host country, India, played a central mediating role in facilitating dialogue between key regional figures during the gathering.

Beyond security grievances, Pezeshkian accused Washington of attempting to destabilize West Asia to control its energy reserves and sustain defense sales. He argued that foreign powers use security fears to divide regional states, calling instead for a collaborative regional security framework. US Aircraft Damaged After Iran Strikes Jordan Air Base: Report.

"We, with the neighboring and regional countries, can share our powers in order to help each other and establish security and help our people," Pezeshkian said, advocating for shared economic and cultural cooperation without western intervention.

BRICS Declaration Calls for West Asia De-Escalation

Pezeshkian's statements coincided with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration 2026 by the 11-member BRICS bloc. The joint statement expressed serious concern over the ongoing conflict in West Asia, urging maximum restraint, adherence to international law, and immediate dialogue.

The declaration highlighted several key priorities for regional stability:

• Civilian Protection: Demanded strict protection for non-combatants and critical infrastructure.

• Nuclear Safety: Warned against attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.

• Global Trade Protection: Stressed the necessity of securing unimpeded energy flows, maritime supply chains, and global trade corridors.

• Humanitarian Aid: Urged full compliance with UN resolutions calling for a ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.

With rising tensions continuing to test West Asian stability, the summit provided a rare diplomatic forum bringing regional leadership together around a single table to address security and economic vulnerabilities.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 12, 2026 11:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).