ABU DHABI, 28 January. - (ANA) - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said it would not allow its airspace, territory or waters to be used in any hostile military actions against Iran, after a US aircraft carrier arrived in the Middle East.

 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said dialogue and de-escalation were “the most effective foundations for addressing current crises, underscoring the UAE’s approach of resolving disputes through diplomatic means”.

 

A US official told The National the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, consisting of several warships and the aircraft carrier, had arrived in Central Command's area of responsibility. That means the US now has considerable firepower within striking range of Tehran.

 

The carrier strike group's arrival has stoked fears of renewed military escalation between Washington and Tehran, with Iran's proxies threatening to interfere this time.

 

However, a US official said Washington is “open for business” and prepared to hold talks. Axios reported that US President Donald Trump said he thinks Iran wants to cut a deal. “They want to talk,” Mr Trump said.   - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/28 January 2026 - - -