Radio National Breakfast 'We did not want this war' says UAE ambassador
Mar 26, 2026
Dr Fahad Al-Tafak, UAE ambassador to Australia and seasoned diplomat, outlines UAE security challenges and regional tensions. He recounts the scale of missile and drone attacks and describes defence and international cooperation. He highlights diplomatic efforts, ties with partners, and the UAE’s insistence that it sought to avoid this war.
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UAE Air Defences Largely Successful
- The UAE intercepted about 95% of over 3,300 missiles, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and drones during 27 days of attacks.
- Fahad Al-Tafak credited UAE defence forces' systems and said Australia's Wedge-tailed surveillance aircraft aided detection and defence operations.
Australia's Surveillance Support And Past Cooperation
- Australia deployed a Wedge-tailed surveillance aircraft and crew that is operational and helped detection.
- Al-Tafak recalled long-term cooperation including evacuations from Sudan, Iran, Gaza and Israel and the recent elevation to a strategic partnership after Prime Minister Albanese's visit.
Prioritise Diplomatic Measures Over New Military Requests
- The UAE is prioritising diplomatic and multilateral engagement rather than requesting more military help from Australia right now.
- Al-Tafak highlighted co-sponsorship of UN and IMO resolutions and the Joint Statement on Strait of Hormuz maritime security.