US intelligence reports have revealed that the UAE has joined active military operations against Iran.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Monday evening that “the United Arab Emirates has carried out military strikes on Iran,” with implicit backing from the US administration, which has also encouraged other Gulf states to join the fighting.
The attacks, which the UAE has not officially acknowledged, reportedly included strikes on an oil refinery on Iran’s Lavan Island in the Persian Gulf.
People familiar with the matter said the UAE had launched military strikes against Iran, describing the Gulf monarchy as an active combatant in a war in which it has been Iran’s biggest target.
The report said the UAE military is well equipped with Western-made fighter jets and advanced surveillance systems. It added that the attacks suggest Abu Dhabi is becoming more willing to use its military capabilities to protect its economic power and growing influence across the Middle East.
US officials said Washington viewed the move as another strong message to Tehran, particularly amid rising tensions surrounding Iran’s military and nuclear activities.
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