The United Arab Emirates secretly entered the Middle East war and carried out attacks on Iran last month, according to sources cited by The Wall Street Journal. This development makes the UAE a new direct participant in the conflict alongside the United States and Israel.
Details of the Attack
According to the report, the attacks targeted a refinery located on Iran's Lavan Island in early April. The timing coincided with when US President Donald Trump was announcing a ceasefire in the war after a five-week air strike campaign. The US quietly welcomed the Emirati strikes and any other Gulf states that wanted to join the fight. One source claimed Washington was not concerned because the ceasefire had not yet fully settled into place.
Iran's Response
On the morning of April 8, Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported that missile and drone attacks on the Emirates and Kuwait took place a few hours after the targeting of Lavan Island oil facilities. The state broadcaster said the Lavan facility was subjected to a cowardly attack at 10:00 am (0630 GMT). On the same day, just hours after the ceasefire came into effect, the UAE said it had been targeted by 17 Iranian missiles and 35 drones.
Strategic Significance
The refinery was Iran's 10th-largest refinery as of 2020, handling 60,000 barrels of crude per day, according to EIA figures. The UAE has not publicly acknowledged carrying out attacks inside Iran. Its ministry of foreign affairs pointed to earlier statements asserting the country's right to respond, including militarily, to hostile acts.
Impact on the UAE
Iran heavily targeted the UAE during the conflict, launching more than 2,800 missiles and drones at Emirati territory, airports, and infrastructure. The attacks disrupted tourism, air traffic, and the property market, prompting what Gulf officials described as a major shift in Abu Dhabi's strategic outlook toward Iran.
Military Capabilities
Security analysts cited in the report said the UAE possesses one of the region's most advanced air forces, equipped with French Mirage fighters, advanced F-16 jets, drones, and surveillance aircraft. Speculation about Emirati involvement intensified after unidentified fighter jets were reportedly seen operating over Iran earlier in the war.
Diplomatic Actions
The report also stated that the UAE backed draft UN resolutions authorising force, if necessary, to protect the Strait of Hormuz, and imposed restrictions affecting Iranian-linked schools, clubs, and travel access in Dubai.
