Abu Dhabi builds its case against Tehran

The United Arab Emirates announced Thursday the creation of a dedicated committee to document Iranian attacks on its territory and their consequences, in preparation for potential legal proceedings at national and international levels.

The committee, chaired by the Prosecutor General, will be "tasked with documenting Iranian acts of aggression, international crimes and the resulting damages in order to build a comprehensive file based on reliable evidence," the official WAM news agency reported. It will also "identify and assess human, material and economic damages" in accordance with international standards.

A toll that demands accountability

The UAE was the primary target of Iranian missiles and drones launched in response to the joint US-Israeli offensive against the Islamic Republic that began on 28 February. The strikes hit American military bases and energy infrastructure — but also residential buildings and hotels, killing 10 civilians and causing extensive material damage across the Emirates.

Abu Dhabi had already signalled its intentions following the ceasefire announced on 8 April, calling for guarantees that Iran be "held responsible and fully accountable for damages and reparations."

Thursday's announcement transforms that political demand into a legal process. By systematically collecting and verifying evidence under the authority of the Prosecutor General, the UAE is building the kind of documented case that could sustain proceedings before international tribunals, or support bilateral reparation claims once the diplomatic dust settles.