New Delhi, May 14: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a covert visit to the United Arab Emirates during “Operation Roaring Lion.” He met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, marking a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations.
According to an official post from the Israeli Prime Minister’s office on social media platform X, Netanyahu’s visit was part of efforts to strengthen ties between Israel and the UAE.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s office stated that this trip represents a historic success in the bilateral relations of both countries.
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, commented on Monday that Israel had sent “Iron Dome” missile defense system batteries and personnel to the UAE to bolster its security, a report prominently featured in the Israeli newspaper “Israel Hayom.”
The report quoted Waltz saying, “We have seen that the UAE has utilized the Iron Dome provided by Israel.”
This was also confirmed by U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, during an event in Tel Aviv. He praised the UAE as the first signatory of the Abraham Accords, highlighting the benefits they have reaped. He noted that Israel had sent them Iron Dome batteries and the personnel to operate them.
These statements indicate a growing defense cooperation between Israel and the UAE.
This development comes at a time when the UAE has reportedly conducted covert military strikes against Iran. According to a Wall Street Journal report, an oil refinery on Iran’s Lavan Island was targeted in April, resulting in a significant fire and prolonged disruption of production.
The attack occurred in early April, coinciding with U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a ceasefire. At that time, Iran claimed that the refinery was damaged in an enemy attack. Subsequently, Tehran launched missile and drone strikes against the UAE and Kuwait.
The UAE has not publicly acknowledged these attacks. However, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the country reserves the right to respond to any hostile actions, including military action. The U.S. was reportedly not displeased with the attack, as the ceasefire was not fully in effect at that time.
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