Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secretly traveled to the United Arab Emirates during the recent Israel-U.S. conflict with Iran, marking a significant development in regional diplomacy and security cooperation, according to Netanyahu’s office.
In a statement released Wednesday, officials confirmed that Netanyahu met with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in talks that reportedly produced a “historic breakthrough” in relations between Israel and the Gulf nation.
The announcement came shortly after U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee revealed that Israel had deployed Iron Dome air-defense systems and military personnel to the UAE during the conflict with Iran. The move highlighted the expanding military and strategic partnership between the two countries following the normalization of relations under the Abraham Accords.
The UAE has not publicly commented on Netanyahu’s reported visit, but the Gulf state has remained on high alert after facing missile and drone attacks linked to Iran even after last month’s ceasefire. Emirati leaders have been working to reassure international investors and maintain confidence in the country’s stability and security.
Last week, the UAE’s state-run WAM news agency confirmed that Netanyahu was among several world leaders who contacted the Emirati president to condemn Iranian attacks and express solidarity with the federation. The public acknowledgment of direct communication between the two nations underscored the strengthening ties forged since the Abraham Accords were signed in 2020.
Iran has long criticized the growing relationship between Israel and Gulf Arab nations, repeatedly accusing Israel of maintaining intelligence and military operations within the Emirates.
Meanwhile, tensions between Iran and neighboring Gulf countries continued to escalate Wednesday after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Kuwait of attempting to “sow discord” following the detention of four Iranians accused of links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Kuwaiti authorities said the suspects were detained near Bubiyan Island while allegedly attempting to infiltrate the strategic area earlier this month. Iran demanded their immediate release and warned it reserved the right to respond.
In separate developments, prominent Iranian human rights lawyer Nasrin Sotoudeh was released from Tehran’s Evin Prison after being detained in April. Rights organizations said she was freed on temporary bail.
At the same time, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi continues receiving medical treatment after collapsing in prison earlier this month. Doctors reportedly recommended months of treatment following complications related to vascular disease.