Is UAE Moving Closer to Joining US-Israel Attacks on Iran?
The UAE has come under sustained missile and drone attacks from Iran, with over 2,200 launches reported in recent weeks. As tensions rise, Abu Dhabi is reportedly considering a more active military role alongside the US and Israel. The conflict, centred around the Strait of Hormuz, risks wider regional escalation with global implications.
Mumbai, March 28: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a key flashpoint in the ongoing conflict involving Iran, after facing a surge of missile and drone attacks in recent weeks. According to reports, more than 2,200 projectiles have been launched toward the UAE over the past three weeks, with air defence systems intercepting over 95% of them. The sustained attacks have increased speculation that the UAE could shift from a defensive posture to a more active military role.
The situation has drawn in global attention, particularly amid reports that the United States and Israel are weighing further escalation against Iran. A report by The Wall Street Journal suggested that Abu Dhabi may consider joining coordinated strikes, reflecting growing frustration within the Emirati leadership. US-Israel Continue Targeting Iran's Missile Facilities, Iran Launches Counter Strike Wave 83.
Rising Military Tensions and Strategic Calculations
The conflict has intensified around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. Iran’s control over the strait has contributed to volatility in global energy markets.
Speculation has also grown around the role of Donald Trump, with reports suggesting he is considering options that include a potential ground offensive to secure strategic positions near Hormuz. Although a temporary pause in strikes on Iranian infrastructure has been announced, discussions around broader military involvement continue. US-Iran Talks ‘Productive’ Despite Ongoing Military Operations, White House Signals Diplomatic Breakthrough.
Iran’s Concerns Over UAE as Launchpad
Iranian officials have indicated concern that any potential ground operation could be staged from the UAE. Intelligence assessments cited by regional reports suggest Tehran believes external forces could use Emirati territory as a base for operations targeting Iranian assets.
Public statements from Iranian leadership have reinforced this view. Senior officials have warned that any regional country supporting military action against Iran could face direct retaliation targeting critical infrastructure.
Historical Disputes Add to Strain
Relations between Iran and the UAE have long been shaped by territorial disputes, particularly over islands near the Strait of Hormuz. The islands of Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunbs have remained under Iranian control since 1971, a point of contention for the UAE.
Recent statements from Iranian lawmakers suggest heightened concern that the current conflict could be used to challenge control over these territories. Analysts note that these longstanding disputes continue to influence present-day strategic calculations.
Targets and Threats Expand
In recent days, Iranian strikes have reportedly targeted key sites across the UAE, including airbases, ports, and urban infrastructure. Among them is the Al Dhafra Air Base, which hosts US forces and is considered a critical strategic installation.
Iran has also signalled that energy infrastructure, including desalination and power facilities, could be targeted if the UAE becomes directly involved in offensive operations.
Regional and Global Implications
The possibility of the UAE entering the conflict carries wider geopolitical implications. The country has strengthened ties with Israel since the Abraham Accords, expanding cooperation in defence and technology.
For India, the situation is particularly significant due to its large diaspora in the UAE, estimated at around 4.5 million people. Diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Abu Dhabi has focused on ensuring the safety of expatriates and maintaining regional stability.
Why the UAE Is in Iran’s Crosshairs
Iran’s recent posture appears to be driven by its assessment that the UAE has played a more active role in the conflict than previously acknowledged. Officials have suggested that Emirati facilities may have supported intelligence or operational activities linked to US and Israeli actions.
Tehran has also accused regional actors of engaging in indirect or covert operations, though such claims remain unverified. These perceptions have contributed to Iran expanding its list of potential targets within the UAE.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 28, 2026 03:52 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).