Anwar Gargash, an advisor to the President of the United Arab Emirates, has warned that if Iran establishes control over the Strait of Hormuz, it would set a “grave precedent.” Such a move would heighten political tensions across the entire region. This information was reported on Friday (May 22) in a live broadcast by Iran International.

Anwar Gargash stated that any alteration to this vital waterway would have a profound impact—not only on the Middle East but also on the global energy and trade systems, including those of Europe.

The senior Emirati official noted that experience has demonstrated Iran’s capability to utilize “any weapon” at its disposal; furthermore, the country’s nuclear program is no longer merely a secondary or tertiary concern for us, but has instead evolved into our primary concern.

He warned that another round of conflict between the United States and Iran would further complicate the situation. Nevertheless, the UAE remains in favor of a political resolution.

Emphasizing the urgency of finding a diplomatic path, he stressed the need to ensure that the situation does not generate further complications in the future. Gargash added that, in terms of the defense of the Gulf nations, the United States currently plays a “central role—acting as the backbone.”

Separately, he indicated that the UAE is facing financial losses due to oil production quotas and has, for a considerable period, been contemplating the possibility of withdrawing from OPEC.