The United Arab Emirates actively participated in the US-Israeli war against Iran from the very beginning of the conflict, carrying out dozens of air strikes on Iranian targets, according to The Wall Street Journal on May 29.
Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report said Emirati forces launched attacks during the opening phase of the war and continued military operations even after a ceasefire was declared in April. The revelations point to a significantly larger and earlier role for Abu Dhabi in the conflict than had previously been publicly known.
According to the report, the UAE effectively functioned as a third partner alongside the United States and Israel in the military campaign. The operations were reportedly coordinated with Washington and Tel Aviv, with intelligence support provided by both allies.
Targets of the Emirati strikes included sites on Qeshm and Abu Musa islands in the Strait of Hormuz, Bandar Abbas, the Lavan Island oil refinery, and the Asaluyeh petrochemical complex. Several attacks focused on Iran’s energy infrastructure.
One strike on the Asaluyeh petrochemical facility, reportedly conducted in coordination with Israel, drew international criticism and prompted the United States to urge Israel to refrain from targeting energy installations.
Saudi officials are said to have urged the United States to press Abu Dhabi to halt its operations and pursue diplomatic avenues instead.