The United Arab Emirates is reportedly preparing to join the United States in a military operation to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force, according to the Wall Street Journal. Emirati diplomats are urging military powers across Europe and Asia to form a coalition with the US, marking a significant shift in the Gulf state's previously cooperative stance towards Iran.
If carried through, the UAE would become the first Gulf state to become a combatant, having experienced more than 2,000 drone and missile attacks with at least 11 people killed since 28 February, according to the Emirati defence ministry. The UAE is also lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution to authorise the action, with Bahrain, host of the US Navy’s Fifth fleet, sponsoring the resolution and a vote projected for Thursday.
A UAE official told the Journal that the government has reviewed its ability to contribute to controlling the waterway, including by supporting mine clearance operations. The Gulf state would reportedly support the US occupation of islands in the strait, including Abu Musa, which has been held by Tehran for half a century and is claimed by the UAE.
Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states recently subject to heavy Iranian bombardment have also increased their opposition to Tehran, Arab officials said, but they are yet to offer military support. The UAE’s new, more militaristic posture marks a decisive change from their previously cooperative demeanour, when Emirati diplomats were eager to mediate negotiations between the US and Iran.
This change in policy has seemingly alarmed Tehran, as strikes have intensified in recent days. The variation in approach reflects Abu Dhabi’s concern over the long-lasting impact the war is having on its economy, with Iranian strikes destabilising its tourist industry and interrupting Dubai’s position as an international aviation hub. However, pursuing a more aggressive policy against Iran carries risks, with Tehran threatening to destroy any civilian infrastructure which supports an attempt on its territory.
In response to reports of the new approach, an Emirati official said the country maintained a “defensive posture” and “remains ready to support collective international efforts aimed at safeguarding maritime security and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of commerce.”
