The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is reportedly pushing for international action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after Iranian attacks. The US-Iran war has entered its second month, resulting in widespread disruption to oil shipments from the Middle East.
As a result, the UAE is urging the US and other allies to consider using force if needed. It is also seeking support at the United Nations Security Council for a resolution that would allow military action, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. If this happens, the UAE could become the first Gulf nation to directly join the conflict.
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The report added the UAE is reviewing options to play a direct military role in securing the Strait of Hormuz. This could include clearing mines and providing support services. Its officials also suggested the US should take control of key islands such as Abu Musa, which Iran has held for decades but is claimed by the UAE, the WSJ report said.
In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs also cited UN resolutions condemning Iran's attacks. The ministry was cited by the publication as saying that there is “broad global consensus that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved.”
Notably, the UAE faces major risks if it joins the war as it would become a direct opponent of Iran. This could result in prolonged tensions even if the war ends. The latest move by the UAE comes as Iranian strikes have already disrupted tourism, aviation and property markets in the popular Gulf nation. Hit by some 2,500 Iranian missiles and drones, the war has also undermined the UAE's image as an oasis of peace in a rough neighbourhood, the report added.
Due to these developments, the UAE is shifting its strategy, moving from mediation to a more assertive stance in the conflict. Earlier, the country supported diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran even before the war started, according to the report. But it seems that now it is aligning with Donald Trump's push for allies to take greater responsibility.
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On Tuesday alone, the Gulf nation was hit by nearly 50 Iranian missiles and drones. This comes as Tehran has warned of targeting critical infrastructure in any Gulf state that is backing military action against it, particularly pointing to the UAE, the report noted.
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