The United Arab Emirates has stepped up efforts to end the Iran war, joining Saudi Arabia and Qatar in urging US President Donald Trump to pursue negotiations, according to a Bloomberg report.
The talks were driven by fears that any Iranian retaliation could devastate Gulf economies. In separate calls with Trump, the three US allies argued that military action won't achieve America's long-term goals with Iran.
Abu Dhabi's stance marks a shift for a country that bore the brunt of Iran's attacks and had been more hawkish. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar differ on the ideal diplomatic deal but share wariness of renewed hostilities.
The conflict between late February and early April saw Israel and the US launch a war on Iran. Iran and its allies retaliated with drones and missiles, killing scores and causing billions in damage to ports and energy infrastructure.
The UAE was frustrated when Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states refused a collective military response. Abu Dhabi carried out limited strikes on Iran with US and Israeli coordination, while Saudi Arabia acted separately.
Iran and the US agreed to a truce on April 8 and are exchanging messages via Pakistan. Both sides say they are ready to resume fighting and show little sign of concessions.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited "slight progress" toward a deal. Iranian media echoed similar sentiments.
Some Gulf leaders doubt their calls will be heeded, fearing Israel will convince Trump to attack Iran again. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signaled more strikes are needed.
Anwar Gargash, senior advisor to the UAE president, said: "There's a 50-50 chance of an agreement. My worry is that Iranians over-negotiate. The region needs a political solution. Round two of military confrontation will only complicate things."
Saudi Arabia supports Pakistan-mediated talks, believing Iran's nuclear and missile programs can only be resolved through diplomacy. The kingdom and the UAE think the US should focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and maintaining the naval blockade.
Qatar continues to back Pakistan-led mediation, consistently advocating de-escalation for the region and its people.
