InfoHub Logo

In a significant development underscoring deepening regional security ties، Israel has reportedly deployed its advanced Iron Dome missile defense system to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This strategic move came in response to escalating threats and successful interceptions of Iranian missile attacks.

Enhanced Defense Cooperation

The deployment، which also included military personnel to operate the system، occurred during heightened tensions with Iran. This marks the first instance of the Iron Dome system being stationed outside of the United States and Israel، according to Axios، citing two Israeli and one American official. The system is credited with neutralizing dozens of Iranian missiles، significantly elevating the military and intelligence collaboration between Israel and the UAE.

UAE Faces Barrage of Attacks

The UAE's Ministry of Defence reported that Iran launched approximately 550 ballistic and cruise missiles، along with over 2،200 unmanned aerial vehicles، targeting the nation. While many of these projectiles were intercepted، some managed to strike military and civilian targets.

Netanyahu Authorizes Deployment

Following a phone call with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed، Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized the dispatch of an Iron Dome battery، ammunition، and several dozen operators from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to the UAE. Israeli military sources also indicated that they intercepted short-range missiles launched from southern Iran before they could reach the UAE and other countries in the Persian Gulf.

Strengthening Regional Alliances

Despite existing disagreements، including on the Gaza issue، officials from both Israel and the UAE describe the partnership as being at a historic level. The UAE sought support from its allies during the extensive attacks. "We will not forget this،" stated a high-ranking UAE official، acknowledging the crucial assistance provided by Israel and Netanyahu at a critical moment.

A UAE representative also highlighted the contributions of other partners، including the United States، France، the United Kingdom، Italy، and Australia.