United Arab Emirates: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a “secret” meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during the ongoing war with Iran, according to a statement issued by Netanyahu’s office on Wednesday.
The statement said that during Operation “Lion’s Roar”, Netanyahu travelled secretly to the United Arab Emirates, where he met the UAE president. The visit, according to the Israeli prime minister’s office, marked what it described as a “historic breakthrough in relations” between Israel and the UAE.
The disclosure came a day after US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee stated that Israel had deployed its Iron Dome air defence systems and personnel to the UAE during the conflict with Iran. Netanyahu’s office did not directly confirm Huckabee’s remarks but referenced expanded cooperation between the two countries during the war period.
Iran had reportedly targeted the UAE more than any other country during the conflict, which escalated following US–Israeli strikes on Iran at the end of February. The war has since seen repeated missile and drone activity in the region, with the UAE reporting multiple incidents even after a ceasefire came into effect last month.
Despite the ceasefire, regional tensions remain high, with continued concerns over further attacks. The UAE has stated that it has not sought confrontation and continues to support diplomatic efforts to reduce escalation. Senior UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash reiterated that the country remains committed to political solutions while reserving the right to defend its sovereignty.
Gargash further emphasized that relations between Arab states and Iran should not be based on confrontation, underscoring the UAE’s position in favour of de-escalation and regional diplomacy.
The Israeli statement highlights deepening behind-the-scenes coordination between Israel and Gulf states during the conflict period, even as regional security conditions remain fragile following months of strikes, counterstrikes, and ongoing geopolitical tensions.