InfoHub Logo

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has secretly carried out dozens of airstrikes against Iran in collaboration with the United States and Israel since the outbreak of regional conflict, The Wall Street Journal has reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Covert Operations Revealed

These covert strikes reportedly began in the early days of the conflict and continued even after a ceasefire was announced in April. Targets included strategic locations such as the islands of Qeshm and Abu Musa in the Strait of Hormuz, the port of Bandar Abbas, an oil refinery on Lavan Island, and the Assaluyeh oil and gas complex.

Retaliation and Escalation

Some of these attacks specifically targeted Iran's energy infrastructure, seemingly as a response to Tehran's earlier assaults on UAE's oil and gas facilities. A joint strike with Israel on the Assaluyeh complex drew international criticism, prompting Washington to urge Israel to cease targeting energy infrastructure.

While Persian Gulf nations had publicly stated they would not permit their territories to be used for attacks against Iran, the escalating conflict appears to have shifted the stance of some states.

Tehran's Response and Regional Tensions

In response, Iran began launching its own missile and drone attacks against cities, airports, and energy infrastructure in regional countries. According to WSJ sources, the UAE has been the most heavily impacted, receiving over 2,800 missiles and drones – more than any other country, including Israel.

The UAE's active involvement has reportedly caused friction within the Gulf Cooperation Council. Saudi Arabia, concerned about retaliatory attacks on regional oil infrastructure and a subsequent rise in global oil prices, has expressed displeasure with Abu Dhabi's actions and asked the U.S. to dissuade the UAE from further strikes.

Tensions have also reportedly surfaced between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with the UAE leader allegedly frustrated by Riyadh's refusal to participate in joint military actions against Iran. Earlier reports from Reuters had also indicated Saudi Arabia's involvement in covert strikes against Iran.

Economic Measures Against Iran

Beyond military actions, the UAE has also implemented measures targeting Iran's financial interests. This includes the closure of schools and clubs linked to Iran within the Emirates and restrictions on visa issuance and transit for Iranian citizens.

This information was reported by the Infohub.kz news agency.