A senior UAE official on Thursday dismissed Iran’s attempts to strengthen its control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, describing them as a “pipe dream”.

In a post on X, Dr Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed, said Iran was seeking to impose a “new reality” in the region after decades of what he described as aggressive behaviour toward its Arab neighbours.

“We’ve grown accustomed to Iranian bullying over long decades, and credibility has been lost between aggressive rhetoric and hollow declarations of friendship,” he wrote.

The remarks come after Iranian authorities announced plans concerning the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping corridor, raising concerns among Gulf states about potential regional instability.

Iran declared a “controlled maritime zone” in the Gulf, publishing a map claiming control over the Strait of Hormuz that extends into the waters of its Arab neighbours.

Iran’s ‘Strait Authority’ in a post on X said vessels transiting the strait must obtain its authorisation and coordinate radio frequencies in advance.

Gargash, in his statement, said that any attempts to infringe on the UAE’s maritime sovereignty or dominate the strategic strait were unrealistic.

“After the brutal Iranian aggression, the regime is trying to solidify a new reality born from a clear military defeat, but such ambitions will remain wishful thinking,” he said.

He further emphasised that trust between Iran and Arab states cannot be restored through slogans alone.

“Trust can only be rebuilt through responsible discourse, respect for sovereignty, and a genuine commitment to the principles of good neighbourliness,” Gargash said.