UAE, Saudi leaders discuss regional tensions over phone call, urge de-escalation

ABU DHABI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud discussed regional developments during a phone call on Monday, including escalating military actions and their impact on regional and global security.

According to the Emirates News Agency, the two sides stressed the need for an immediate cessation of military escalation, warning that it threatens stability and security in the region and beyond. They underscored the importance of prioritizing dialogue and diplomacy to address regional issues and preserve peace and security.

Since the outbreak of the joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, Gulf states have faced waves of missile and drone attacks, with the UAE reporting interception of over 1,500 drones so far. Enditem