The United Arab Emirates has taken a more active military role in the Gulf by conducting numerous covert airstrikes against Iranian targets, utilizing assistance from both the United States and Israel. These operations, previously undisclosed, aimed to counter Iran’s expanding missile capabilities and regional influence, highlighting a new phase in Gulf security engagements.
According to reports, the UAE Air Force executed these strikes with support that included intelligence sharing, aerial refueling, and logistical coordination from US and Israeli forces. The targets focused primarily on Iranian military infrastructure believed to fuel regional tensions and enhance Tehran’s power projection, particularly in the sensitive Strait of Hormuz area.
This escalation reflects growing concerns among Gulf states over Iran’s missile program and provocative military activities. The UAE’s involvement illustrates an emerging strategy of closer collaboration among US-aligned countries in the region, combining direct military action with intelligence cooperation to deter perceived threats.
The US Department of Defense has maintained ongoing military partnerships with the UAE, underscoring the strategic alliance that enabled these operations. However, the discreet nature of the airstrikes raises questions regarding their alignment with international legal frameworks and UN sanctions targeting Iran’s military developments.