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Current Affairs

Israel thrusts reluctant UAE into open over defence ties

For months, the United Arab Emirates had denied Iran’s accusations that it was in league with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or hosting his country’s…

By Samantha Johnson / May 23, 2026

Then, US ambassador to Israel Mick Huckabee handed Tehran a propaganda gift and Abu Dhabi a diplomatic headache all in a single sentence.

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A day later, Netanyahu made the UAE’s headache even worse.

On May 13, his office announced that the Israeli prime minister had secretly flown to the Gulf state in late March – during active bombing campaigns on Iran – to meet UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

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“This visit has led to a historic breakthrough in relations between Israel and the UAE,” the statement declared.

Tel Aviv City Hall is lit up with the UAE flag after the kingdom and Israel announced they would be establishing full diplomatic ties on August 13, 2020. Photo: AP
Tel Aviv City Hall is lit up with the UAE flag after the kingdom and Israel announced they would be establishing full diplomatic ties on August 13, 2020. Photo: AP

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