Trump Pledges UAE Support as U.S.-Iran Conflict Reaches 21st Day

On the 21st day of the conflict between the United States and Iran, President Donald Trump held a high-level phone call with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. During the exchange, Trump expressed full support for regional stability and committed to comprehensive cooperation, as Gulf allies seek a coordinated defense strategy. The diplomatic move comes as analysts suggest Iran is attempting to pressure the U.S. toward an exit strategy by leveraging the threat of sustained global oil price surges. On the military front, U.S. air operations have reportedly advanced to a third stage, focusing on the neutralization of Iranian coastal boats and missile batteries. Despite this coordination, friction remains between the Trump administration and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. U.S. officials have expressed concerns regarding Israel's recent strike on the South Pars gas field, a massive resource in the Gulf. Netanyahu, however, has signaled he may seek a quick resolution to the conflict to align with President Trump's preferences, provided Iran's nuclear and missile threats are neutralized. The international community continues to urge de-escalation. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a stern warning that the war risks spiraling out of control, causing irreparable global economic damage. Guterres demanded that Iran cease attacks on its neighbors and lift restrictions on the Strait of Iran. While names such as Ali Larijani have been floated as potential mediators for a ceasefire, no official diplomatic breakthroughs have been confirmed.