The government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is considering imposing stringent sanctions against Iran, including freezing billions of dollars in Iranian assets held within the country. According to The Wall Street Journal, UAE officials have privately warned Tehran of potential retaliatory measures in response to missile and drone launches targeting Emirati territory.

For years, the UAE has served as a key financial hub for Iranian companies and individuals seeking to circumvent Western sanctions. Through UAE financial structures, Tehran has been able to continue oil exports and channel funds to finance weapons programs and supported groups, posing ongoing threats to regional stability.

Among the measures under review are freezing assets of front Iranian companies based in the UAE and initiating extensive inspections of local currency exchange points used to transfer funds outside official banking channels. Sources cited by WSJ indicate that the primary targets will be accounts and structures linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

This development follows heightened regional tensions after the US and Israeli regimes began strikes on Iranian territory on February 28, prompting Tehran to retaliate against Israel and states it considers allies of Washington. Iranian missiles and drones were directed toward the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and other regional countries, increasing pressure on UAE authorities to respond decisively.

Source: kun.uz