Iran’s Multiethnic Structure and Its Geopolitical Fault Lines

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Iran’s Multiethnic Structure and Its Geopolitical Fault Lines

The Kurdish Question and the Role of Ethnic Minorities in the Stability of the Iranian Regime

“State borders are drawn on maps, but the real fault lines run through societies.”

By Major General (Two Stars) (retd) Corneliu Pivariu

1. Iran – A Multiethnic State with Geopolitical Fracture Potential

Iran is often perceived as a relatively homogeneous state dominated by Persian identity. In reality, its ethnic composition is far more complex. Persians represent approximately 60–65% of the population, while the rest consists of numerous ethnic minorities: Azerbaijanis (≈16%), Kurds (≈10%), Lurs (≈6%), Arabs, Baluchis and Turkmen (≈2% each), along with smaller groups such as Talysh, Armenians or Assyrians.

An important strategic element is the geographical distribution: most of these minorities live in border regions, in direct contact with similar populations in neighboring states – Azerbaijan, Iraq, Turkey, Pakistan or Turkmenistan.

This ethnic geography creates three strategic characteristics:

  • Transborder ethnic continuity
  • Potential external support
  • The possibility of territorial fragmentation in the event of a major political crisis.

For this reason, in many Western strategic analyses Iranian minorities are considered a potentially decisive factor in the event of destabilization of the regime in Tehran.

2. Minorities as a Strategic Factor in Regime-Change Scenarios

Ethnic minorities have consistently been more active in protests and anti-regime movements than the Persian majority population. Some studies estimate that approximately half of Iran’s population belongs to ethnic or linguistic minorities, and these communities have often been at the forefront of political opposition.

The Iranian regime perceives three regions as particularly sensitive areas of internal security:

  • Iranian Kurdistan (west)
  • Iranian Baluchistan (southeast)
  • Arab Khuzestan (southwest, an oil-producing region).

These territories combine three destabilizing elements: a distinct ethnic identity, a different religious component (many communities are Sunni), and an economic level below the national average.

Consequently, Tehran maintains a strong military and security presence in these areas, particularly through the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Iran

3. The Main Minorities and Their Geopolitical Potential

Azerbaijanis

  • approximately 16–20% of Iran’s population
  • concentrated in the northwest
  • predominantly Shiite (like the Persians)

Although there is a strong ethnic identity, Azerbaijanis are relatively integrated into the state structure and hold important positions within the elite. For this reason, their secessionist potential is limited, even though there are cultural ties with the Republic of Azerbaijan.

However, from a strategic perspective, the Azerbaijani minority could represent the most significant systemic risk to the stability of the Iranian regime. Azerbaijanis are almost twice as numerous as the Kurds, are concentrated in a compact region in the northwest of the country, and maintain direct ethnic and cultural links with the neighboring state of Azerbaijan. In addition, Azerbaijani regions include important urban and economic centers, and a possible political mobilization in these areas could have a far deeper impact on the internal balance of the Iranian state than a peripheral insurgency in the Kurdish mountainous regions.

This strategic dimension has become even more visible in the context of recent tensions between Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan. On 5 March 2026, after drones originating from Iran struck targets in the Nakhchivan region, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev described the incident as an “act of terrorism”, convened the Security Council, and demanded official explanations from Tehran. Even though Iranian authorities denied direct responsibility, the episode illustrates how rapidly relations between Iran and the neighboring Azerbaijani state can become sensitive, particularly given the presence of a large Azerbaijani population on Iranian territory.

Arabs of Khuzestan

  • approximately 2–3% of the population
  • living in the oil-producing province of Khuzestan.

Their importance is strategic because the region produces a significant share of Iran’s oil. Separatist movements exist, but they have remained fragmented.

Baluchis

  • approximately 2% of the population
  • concentrated in the southeast, on the border with Pakistan.

They are predominantly Sunni and have a history of armed confrontations with the Iranian regime. However, the region is very poor and sparsely populated, which limits their strategic impact.

The Kurdish Question – Considered the Most Serious Internal Vulnerability

Over the past century, major powers have periodically supported various Kurdish movements, yet this support has almost always been limited by the logic of strategic interests. In the logic of realpolitik, foreign policy is not an act of solidarity but an instrument of power.

General data

  • approximately 8–10% of Iran’s population (3–5 million people)
  • concentrated in the provinces of Kurdistan, Kermanshah and West Azerbaijan
  • predominantly Sunni in a state dominated by Shiites.

Iranian Kurds are part of the transnational Kurdish space, which includes populations in: Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Iran.

In total, this community exceeds 30 million people, making the Kurdish issue one of the most complex geopolitical questions in the Middle East.

The modern history of the Kurds reflects one of the most persistent constants of regional geopolitics: the support of major powers is often circumstantial, and strategic interests prevail over political solidarity. This reality is reflected perfectly in the proverb: “The Kurds have no friends but the mountains.”

5. The Political Tradition of the Kurdish Movement in Iran

The Kurdish movement in Iran has a long political tradition:

  • 1946 – the Republic of Mahabad[1], the first modern Kurdish state, supported by the USSR
  • after 1979 – the Kurdish revolt against the Islamic regime
  • the emergence of political and paramilitary organizations.

The most important organizations are:

  • The Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (KDPI)
  • PJAK (ideologically affiliated with the PKK)

These groups have bases in northern Iraq, from where they conduct political or military activities against Tehran.

6. Why the Kurds Are Considered the “Primary Vector” of Destabilization

The Kurdish issue is often considered Iran’s main internal vulnerability for several strategic reasons. First, the Kurds have a significant tradition of political and military organization, being one of the most politically active minorities in Iran. Second, the autonomous experience accumulated in the region plays an important role: the existence of the Kurdistan Autonomous Region in Iraq and the consolidation of influential Kurdish entities in Syria have created a political and symbolic precedent that fuels Kurdish national aspirations.

At the same time, Kurdish-inhabited regions form a relatively continuous territorial arc from the Mediterranean Sea to western Iran, facilitating cross-border cooperation and maintaining political and military links among different Kurdish communities[2]. In addition, the Kurdish factor has repeatedly been used by different states as a geopolitical instrument in regional competitions, which has amplified its strategic relevance.

However, the Kurdish issue has not remained unresolved because it would be impossible to solve, but because no major actor is willing to bear the geopolitical cost of the emergence of an independent Kurdish state. From this perspective, the Kurdish file remains one of the most persistent and complex geopolitical issues in the Middle East.

In a potential scenario of destabilization of Iran, the Kurds could play a significant role. However, it is unlikely that they would become the decisive actor of regime change. The most realistic scenario would be one in which Kurdish movements are used rather as a peripheral pressure element, while the decisive evolution would depend on the dynamics of the political crisis within the ruling elite in Tehran.

7. The Limits of Using Minorities Against the Iranian Regime

Although ethnic minorities represent a potential vulnerability for the Iranian regime, using them as a destabilization instrument also faces important limitations. First, Iranian national identity still remains a significant factor of cohesion. Many members of minorities identify not only with their ethnic belonging but also with the Iranian state, which reduces the potential for separatist mobilization.

Second, the political and military organizations of these minorities are often fragmented and even rival among themselves, which makes it difficult to form a coherent and united opposition against the regime in Tehran.

At the same time, the Iranian state possesses effective instruments for managing such internal challenges. The security apparatus is strongly consolidated, particularly through the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), supported by extensive internal security networks and strict border control.

Finally, another limiting factor is the widespread fear within Iranian society of the risk of ethnic fragmentation of the state. For a significant part of the population, the prospect of a “Yugoslav scenario”, characterized by state disintegration and internal conflicts, represents a powerful argument in favor of maintaining territorial integrity and the stability of the Iranian state.

8. Conclusions

Iran is a multiethnic state in which minorities represent approximately one third, and according to some estimates even almost half of the population. Most of these communities are concentrated in peripheral border areas, which gives them particular geopolitical relevance and creates potential pressure points on the central authorities.

Among them, the Kurds are often considered the minority with the greatest destabilizing potential, due to their relatively high level of political organization, the military experience accumulated over time, and their transborder connections with other Kurdish communities in the region.

However, from a broader strategic perspective, the Azerbaijani minority could represent an even more significant systemic risk for the stability of the Iranian state, due to its demographic size, compact territorial concentration, and ethnic links with the neighboring state of Azerbaijan.

In the event of a major crisis of the regime in Tehran, minorities could become a determining factor in the internal evolution of the Iranian state. Nevertheless, their external instrumentalization does not automatically guarantee regime change, since Iranian national identity and the sense of belonging to the state still remain important elements of internal cohesion.

Ultimately, Iran’s stability will depend less on the strength of its security apparatus than on the state’s capacity to manage the ethnic fault lines that run through its society.

Brașov, 4 March 2026

[1] The Republic of Mahabad was a short-lived Kurdish state proclaimed on 22 January 1946 in the city of Mahabad, in north-western Iran, in the context of the Soviet occupation of northern Iran following the Second World War. The state was led by the Kurdish leader Qazi Muhammad and benefited from indirect support from the Soviet Union. The republic existed only briefly and was dissolved in December 1946 after the withdrawal of Soviet troops and the restoration of control by the Iranian authorities. Its leaders were arrested, and Qazi Muhammad was executed in 1947. The Mahabad episode remains one of the main historical reference points of the Kurdish national movement and the first modern attempt to establish a Kurdish state.

[2] In the context of the escalation of the conflict in March 2026, Iran launched several missile and drone strikes against bases belonging to Iranian Kurdish organizations located in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, which Tehran accused of preparing cross-border incursions. The operations targeted facilities associated in particular with groups such as the Kurdistan Freedom Party (PAK), the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI) and Komala, including positions in the areas of Erbil, Koya and Sulaymaniyah. According to Iranian authorities, the strikes – carried out in cooperation with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) – were intended to destroy the bases and weapons depots of these groups.

German-Nordic Defence Industry Dialogue

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German-Nordic Defence Industry Dialogue

23 February-25 February 2026, Nürnberg, Free State of Bavaria, Germany: Enforce Tac, Europe’s leading trade fair for law enforcement, defence, tactical equipment and internal security technologies hosted a “German-Nordic Defense Industry Dialogue” featuring the participation from the ambassadors from the Nordic and Baltic regions accredited to Germany. ‘

During the panel the heads of mission of Sweden, Veronika Wand-Danielsson and Finland, Kai Jürgen Sauer, touched on current issues such as the development of an innovative defense tech ecosystem in Europe, that is, scaling up production and delivery capacities. Panelists agreed that the European defence industrial mindset needs to adapt to “wartime readiness”, further to high tech military capabilities. The societal resilience was highlighted as an equally important deterrence as well as a good and resilient understanding among neighbours and strategic allies.

Ambassador Wand-Danielsson and CIO of Diehl Defence, Helmut Rauch

Enforce Tac in Nuremberg is a highly specialized trade fair aimed at professionals from security agencies and the armed forces.

Since its inception in 2012, it has become an essential industry meeting place, renowned for its discreet atmosphere and the high quality of its exhibits and presentations.

The fair is organized by NürnbergMesse GmbH, one of Germany’s leading trade fair organizers, whose extensive expertise and professionalism provide the ideal framework for this event.

For further information

Enforce Tac: https://www.enforcetac.com/en/_site_enfor

Pictures courtesy of the Swedish Embassy in Germany 

9th EU–Turkmenistan Inter-Parliamentary meeting held in Brussels

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9th EU–Turkmenistan Inter-Parliamentary meeting held in Brussels

Thursday, 5 March 2026, European Parliament, Brussels: The European Parliament hosted the 9th Inter-Parliamentary Meeting between the European Union and Turkmenistan. During the meeting, the parties discussed current issues of political and economic cooperation, the regional agenda of Central Asia, the international situation, as well as matters related to the rule of law and social policy.

The Turkmen delegation consisted of members of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan and was headed by Mr. Maksat Kulyyev, Chairman of the Committee of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan on International and Inter-Parliamentary Relations. On the side of the European Parliament, the meeting was chaired by Member of the European Parliament Ms. Giuseppina Princi, Head of the European Parliament Delegation for Relations with Central Asian countries (DCAS).

Images courtesy of the Embassy of Turkmenistan to the European Union 

Opening the meeting, participants emphasized the importance of regular inter-parliamentary contacts as an effective instrument for strengthening trust and mutual understanding.

During the exchange of views on the state of bilateral cooperation and the international agenda, Members of the European Parliament noted the growing importance of cooperation between the European Union and Central Asia amid ongoing international tensions. At the same time, interest was expressed in expanding the scope of partnership, including economic and energy cooperation, as well as in developing ties in education and scientific programmes.

The Turkmen side highlighted the initiatives and national priorities being implemented in the areas of sustainable development, energy, environmental protection, and the expansion of renewable energy sources. Particular attention was also given to the importance of transport connectivity and to Turkmenistan’s geostrategic role in the development of international transit and logistics routes, including the potential of the Turkmenbashi International Seaport as an important hub within regional transport corridors.

In the context of discussions on regional policy in Central Asia, attention was given to issues of stability and the development of regional connectivity. It was noted that the permanent neutrality of Turkmenistan is regarded as an important contribution to strengthening peace and security and serves as a foundation for expanding the humanitarian dimension and cooperation on regional projects, including those related to Afghanistan.

9th EU-Turkmenistan Inter Parliamentary meeting

Within the agenda item devoted to the humanitarian dimension and social issues, the European side underlined the importance of continuing the relevant dialogue and exchanging best practices.

The participants positively assessed the substantive and constructive nature of the exchange of views and reaffirmed their intention to continue inter-parliamentary cooperation. In this regard, an agreement was reached to hold the next meeting at the beginning of next year in Ashgabat.

For further information 

Embassy of Turkmenistan to the European Union: https://belgium.tmembassy.gov.tm/en/news/158562 

Images courtesy of the Embassy of Turkmenistan to the European Union 

Team France in Germany coordinates work with French Ambassador Delattre

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Team France in Germany coordinates work with French Ambassador Delattre

An enriching exchange took place at the French Embassy in Germany, bringing together key stakeholders for a wide-ranging discussion with French Ambassador François Delattre on Franco-German relations in the current geopolitical context and the state of the German economy.

The meeting was held against a backdrop defined by pressing challenges such the ongoing war in Ukraine; the economic stakes facing Europe in its relations with China and the United States; as well as the growing frequency of attacks on the foundations of democratic systems.

Against this complex backdrop, participants converged on a clear conclusion, namely, that European, collective responses to these challenges are not only desirable, they are necessary. The Franco-German relationship remains a cornerstone of European cohesion, and strengthening this relationship at the level of citizens, businesses and states is a shared and deeply felt motivation among all actors of Team France in Germany.

Team France in Germany brings together the best public and private sector solutions to facilitate and accelerate international business development. Its network in Germany comprises:

·        State services: the Embassy, the Regional Economic Service in Berlin, and the Consulates

·        Business France (Business France Deutschland)

·        Foreign Trade Advisors (Conseillers du Commerce Extérieur)

·        French Tech communities: French Tech Berlin, French Tech Munich, French Tech Düsseldorf

·        Franco-German business clubs: Deutsch Französischer Wirtschaftskreis (DFWK); Deutsch-Französischer Wirtschaftsclub in Bayern; Club d’Affaires franco-allemand du Bade-Wurtemberg; Club des Affaires Saar-Lorraine; Club des Affaires NRW; Club des Affaires de la Hesse e.V.; Club des affaires Saxe/Saxe-Anhalt/Thuringe; Club d’affaires franco-allemand du Bade-Wurtemberg e.V.; CAFA Hamburg

·        Chamber of Commerce: The French Chamber of Commerce in Germany (CCI France Allemagne / CCFA e.V.)

·        Strategic partners in Germany: Qivive Avocats & Rechtsanwälte, Forvis Mazars in Germany, LPA Law, DWF, Pramex International, vif Management, ALTIOS International, Emploi Allemagne.

For further information

French Embassy in Germany: https://de.ambafrance.org                          

Rwanda: Where International Women’s Day Means More

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Rwanda: Where International Women’s Day Means More

International Women’s Day means more when it stays close to visible results. In Rwanda, women lead in sectors that move goods, attract visitors and help firms grow. Their work appears in exports, aviation, banking, tourism, technology, diplomacy and fashion. As a result, their leadership shapes daily economic life in practical ways. These are not symbolic roles. Instead, these women make decisions, run systems and open routes to market.

Export leadership in motion

Angel Uwantege of Bahage Foods offers a clear example. In October 2024, Bahage Foods reportedly shipped a full container of Hass avocados weighing 22 tonnes. According to the source, it was the first Rwandan woman-led business to export a full container of avocados. That result points to careful planning, quality control, buyer trust and strong execution. In other words, export growth rarely arrives with noise. More often, it moves through deadlines, standards and logistics that hold together under pressure.

Tourism, routes and access

Meanwhile, other women shape Rwanda’s growth story in equally practical ways. Bonita Mutoni (Uber Luxe Safaris) reflects a tourism model built on experience design, premium travel and strong storytelling. As such, her work points to a tourism offer that goes beyond sightseeing alone. At the same time, Yvonne Manzi Makolo, as CEO of RwandAir, helps shape how visitors and business travellers enter and leave Rwanda. Routes, partnerships and passenger experience all affect tourism flows and trade ties. Therefore, connectivity does not simply support growth. It actively helps create it.

Finance and export credibility

Likewise, Dr. Diane Karusisi leads Bank of Kigali from a position that can influence business growth in direct ways. Her role connects to lending priorities, product design and the ability of entrepreneurs to formalize and scale. In coffee, Epiphanie Mukashyaka of Bufcoffee shows what export credibility requires over time. She represents consistency, traceability and long-term relationships with producers and buyers. Together, these elements help products travel well and compete in demanding markets.

Brand, policy and digital reach

Beyond those sectors, Sonia Mugabo adds another dimension through fashion and brand-building. As founder and CEO of her label, she connects contemporary Rwandan identity with local craftsmanship. Similarly, Irene Murerwa, appointed Chief Tourism Officer at RDB in late September 2024, brings cross-sector leadership to tourism management. Clare Akamanzi also links public leadership with private-sector reach through her move from RDB to NBA Africa. In addition, Louise Mushikiwabo brings diplomatic influence through international leadership. Finally, Clarisse Iribagiza adds a digital enterprise lens through HeHe Limited and recognition in UNCTAD’s eTrade for Women network.

A wider growth story

Taken together, these women show how Rwanda’s economic story takes shape in real work. They finance, connect, design, negotiate and build. Consequently, their leadership gives that story both structure and momentum.

Cyprus contribution to the ICC Trust Fund for Victims

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Cyprus contribution to the ICC Trust Fund for Victims

The Republic of Cyprus, a State Party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) since 2002, has made a voluntary contribution of EUR 25,000 to the Trust Fund for Victims (TFV), reaffirming its commitment to international justice and the rights of victims of crimes under the Rome Statute.  This amount has been marked by the Republic of Cyprus as an unrestricted contribution and will be used to redress the harm suffered by victims. 

H.E. Kevin Kelly, Member of the Board of Directors of the TFV stated, “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Republic of Cyprus for its voluntary contribution to the Trust Fund for Victims. Cyprus has displayed remarkable commitment to the TFV’s cause, consistently donating to the Fund annually since 2017. This new donation sends an important signal of support in these challenging times and will be instrumental in ensuring that victims of heinous crimes are afforded redress and have a chance at healing and rebuilding their lives.” 

H.E. Spyros Attas, Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus to the Kingdom of The Netherlands stated, “The Republic of Cyprus reaffirms its steadfast support for the ICC Trust Fund for Victims through a continued voluntary contribution, acknowledging the Fund’s very important and impactful work.” 

Cyprus has been providing regular support to the TFV through voluntary contributions each year since 2017, with its total voluntary contributions amounting to over EUR 150,000. 

Israeli Candidate Elected President of Key Body of the Hague Conference on Private International Law

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Israeli Candidate Elected President of Key Body of the Hague Conference on Private International Law

Israeli candidate Yael Weiner has been elected Chair of the Council on General Affairs and Policy (CGAP) of the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH) on Thursday, March 5. This marks the first time that an Israeli representative will lead this important governing body of the organization.

Weiner was elected by a large majority of the HCCH’s Member States, following a multi-month diplomatic process led by the Israeli Embassy in The Hague in cooperation with the Israeli Ministry of Justice.

During the meeting, a small group of countries—including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Malaysia, and Spain—proposed postponing the vote. A large majority of Member States rejected this proposal, after which the election proceeded by secret ballot, resulting in clear support for Weiner.

Weiner currently serves as Vice-Chair of the CGAP and has been closely involved in the organization’s work for many years. She was the sole candidate for the position and is widely regarded within the organization as a highly experienced expert in international legal cooperation.

Founded in 1893, the Hague Conference on Private International Law today counts around 90 Member States. The organization develops international legal frameworks that facilitate cooperation between countries on cross-border legal matters, including international family law cases and other forms of judicial and administrative assistance.

The Council on General Affairs and Policy serves as the principal governing body of the HCCH, overseeing the organization’s activities and determining its strategic direction and work programme.

Weiner’s election reflects the confidence of Member States in her leadership, solid knowledge, and extensive experience, as well as her long-standing commitment to the work of the HCCH.

Seized Phones in Swedish Town Uncover Global Drug Trafficking Network

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Seized Phones in Swedish Town Uncover Global Drug Trafficking Network

The Hague, 6 March 2026

A global drug trafficking network has been dismantled following coordinated actions by authorities worldwide, supported by Eurojust and Europol. The operation resulted in the arrest of 15 suspects and began after Swedish investigators seized two mobile phones in a small town.

Forensic analysis of the devices revealed international contacts and communications used to coordinate criminal activities far beyond Sweden. The data exposed a sophisticated network involved in large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering, linking several criminal groups operating through a web of companies across multiple countries.

Investigators determined that members of the network in Thailand ran an online drug distribution operation targeting customers in the Nordic region. In Sweden, associates managed domestic distribution and laundered criminal profits, while in Spain a high-value target facilitated large-scale drug trafficking.

Following the discovery, Eurojust brought together judicial authorities from several countries to exchange information and coordinate strategic action. Early results included the seizure by German authorities of 1.2 tonnes of synthetic drugs destined for the Australian market. Two distributors waiting for the shipment were subsequently identified and arrested in Australia.

Once the key actors within the network were identified, authorities prepared a coordinated international operation. On 4 March, approximately 20 searches were carried out in Spain, Sweden and Thailand, leading to the arrest of 13 suspects. Investigators seized phones, documents and other evidence, which are now being further analysed.

Judicial cooperation through Eurojust began in early 2025 after the Swedish Prosecution Authority identified the need for international coordination. Meetings held at Eurojust in The Hague brought together authorities from Sweden, Germany, Spain and Australia to exchange intelligence and plan strategic actions. Eurojust also facilitated the preparation and execution of European Investigation Orders, European Arrest Warrants and freezing orders across multiple jurisdictions.

Europol provided extensive operational support throughout the investigation, including advanced analytical assistance, cryptocurrency analysis, intelligence reporting and funding for cross-border investigative activities.

Commenting on the operation, Senior Public Prosecutor Tove Kullberg of Sweden stated: “The support from Eurojust during the action day made things run smoothly. I found the support from Eurojust invaluable.”

Authorities involved:

Sweden: Swedish Prosecution Authority – National Unit Against Organised Crime; Swedish Economic Crime Authority; Swedish Police.

Spain: Central Investigative Court No. 4; Anti-Drug Prosecutor’s Office; Guardia Civil – UCO Málaga and Balearic Islands; Judicial Police Unit of Catalonia.

Total Football and the Korea-Netherlands Semiconductor Alliance

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Total Football and the Korea-Netherlands Semiconductor Alliance

By H.E. Mr. Seok In Hong, Ambassador of South Korea

In the early 1970’s, The Orange Legion – the Dutch National Team – caused a shift in the global football paradigm through their infamous “Total Football”. With the players moving fluidly across the field, the result of the game was determined by the performance of the systematic strategy rather than an individual player’s prowess. The modern semiconductor industry, the “oil of the twenty-first century”, is no different. It reaches its highest level of competitiveness when materials, equipment, design, and manufacturing come together a synergistic ecosystem. Due to complex processes and intertwined nature of supply chains, it is virtually impossible for any single country to create a complete ecosystem. In today’s turbulent geopolitical environment, Total Cooperation with the Netherlands, our trustworthy ally, is the best path to success.

In stark contrast to the idyllic scenery of windmills and tulip fields, the Netherlands is also home to ASML, the world’s sole manufacturer of EUV lithography equipment. As such, the Netherlands is an indispensable partner for Korea, as we aim to evolve from a memory chip giant into an AI powerhouse. In December 2023, our countries declared a semiconductor alliance, laying the institutional foundation for a total cooperation system. Building upon the well-established interconnected system between ASML, Samsung Electronics, and SK Hynix, our governments declared their partnership on the semiconductor supply chain resilience and technological collaboration.

Korea and the Netherlands shared policy approaches on semiconductors, economic security, and strategic material through consistent dialogue while actively searching for avenues of cooperation on R&D, talent development, and supply chain stability. Since February 2024, Korean universities and research institutes have taken part in the “Korea-NL Advanced Semiconductor Academy” alongside global companies. Every year, over 100 students and engineers visit the Netherlands to experience the frontier of semiconductor innovation. Furthermore, the Foreign Ministers and Trade Ministers held the inaugural “2+2 Foreign and Industry High-Level Dialogue” in February, reaffirming their commitment to maintain and strengthen strategic cooperation between our respective semiconductor ecosystems as expressed in the joint statement.

To guard against the fierce geopolitical winds sweeping across the globe, our countries are also strengthening cooperation in diplomacy and security. Our leaders have maintained close communication on the highest level, including a phone call on the inauguration of the new Korean government in August 2025 and the Dutch Prime Minister’s participation in the UN Security Council Open Discussion on AI chaired by the Korean President in September of the same year. Notably, the Netherlands plans to dispatch a naval vessel to the Indo-Pacific this April, contributing to the region’s peace and stability.

Today, the world is engaged in an unprecedented, holistic competition – not only in semiconductors but across multiple sectors, such as new technologies, cyber, and supply chains. This further necessitates close cooperation with a trusted partner, coordinating a well-equipped posture to analyze the field from every angle while being prepared. The organic cooperation of 20th century ‘Total Football’ was once enough to take on the world from within a single nation. Now heading into the mid-21st century, we need collaboration that transcends national borders. Korea and the Netherlands are strategic partners that complement each other’s semiconductor supply chains seamlessly, and together we look forward to establishing the ‘Total System’ that stretches from Busan to Rotterdam.

UAE Government Briefs Media on Iranian Attacks and National Security Readiness

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UAE Government Briefs Media on Iranian Attacks and National Security Readiness

4 March 2026

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following a series of attacks attributed to Iran, the government of the United Arab Emirates held an extensive press briefing on 4 March to update local and international media on the country’s military, security, and emergency response measures.

The briefing brought together senior officials representing the country’s defence, security, diplomatic, and crisis-management institutions. Among the speakers were Brigadier General Pilot Abdul Nasser Al Humaidi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence; Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Brigadier Abdulaziz Al Ahmad, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior; and Dr. Saif Al Dhaheri, spokesperson for the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority.

The officials presented a coordinated overview of the national response to the attacks, emphasizing defence readiness, internal security measures, and the activation of emergency response systems designed to ensure the protection of citizens, residents, and national infrastructure.

Defence Forces Intercept Hundreds of Missiles and Drones

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Brigadier General Abdul Nasser Al Humaidi described the scale of the attacks and the response by the UAE’s armed forces. According to the military briefing, air defence systems have intercepted 186 ballistic missiles launched toward the country since the beginning of the Iranian aggression this year, destroying 172 of them while others fell into the sea or were neutralized.

In addition, the armed forces detected 812 Iranian drones, intercepting the vast majority before they could reach their targets. Eight cruise missiles were also destroyed.

Al Humaidi stressed that the country’s multi-layered air defence system, supported by advanced fighter aircraft including F-16 and Mirage 2000 jets, has demonstrated high operational efficiency.

“The UAE will not, under any circumstances, accept any infringement upon its sovereignty, security, or the safety of its territory,” he said, adding that the armed forces remain fully prepared to take all necessary measures to defend the country.

Despite the intensity of the attacks, casualties have been limited. Officials reported three fatalities and 68 minor injuries, largely resulting from debris generated during interception operations rather than direct impacts.

Interior Ministry Strengthens Nationwide Security Measures

Addressing internal security, Brigadier Abdulaziz Al Ahmad confirmed that the overall security situation across the UAE remains stable, with authorities maintaining the highest level of readiness.

The Ministry of Interior has deployed an expanded security presence across the country, including more than 4,100 traffic and security patrols and over 3,200 specialized security vehicles. These forces operate within a national security system that coordinates with more than 25 government entities.

Advanced federal operations rooms, supported by modern surveillance technologies and real-time data analysis, are being used to monitor developments and ensure rapid response to any incidents.

Al Ahmad emphasized that the system enables response times that rank among the best internationally, while ensuring the continued delivery of public safety services during the crisis.

He also called on the public to rely exclusively on official sources of information and to follow safety guidelines issued by authorities.

National Emergency System Activated to Ensure Continuity of Essential Services

Dr. Saif Al Dhaheri, representing the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, outlined the country’s coordinated national response framework.

Since the escalation began, the UAE has activated its integrated national crisis-management system, ensuring close coordination among government agencies to safeguard lives and maintain essential services.

According to the authority, energy supply, telecommunications, healthcare, transport, and food distribution systems continue to operate normally, supported by contingency plans designed to maintain uninterrupted service even under emergency conditions.

Business continuity strategies have also been activated across key sectors, while the education system has shifted to remote learning where necessary to ensure that students can continue their academic programs without disruption.

“The national system has responded with high professionalism and proactive coordination,” Al Dhaheri stated, highlighting the role of joint planning and national preparedness exercises in strengthening the country’s resilience.

A Coordinated National Response

Throughout the briefing, officials stressed that the UAE’s response combines military defence, internal security, and emergency management coordination within a unified national framework.

While reaffirming the country’s right to defend its sovereignty, authorities emphasized that maintaining stability, safeguarding residents, and ensuring the continuity of daily life remain the central priorities.

The briefing also highlighted the role of transparent communication with international and local media in maintaining public confidence during a period of regional instability.

As tensions continue in the region, UAE officials reiterated that the country’s institutions remain fully mobilized to respond to any further developments while preserving security and stability across the federation.

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