Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed he made a secret visit to the United Arab Emirates during the recent conflict involving Iran, saying he met UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed in what his office described as a “historic breakthrough”.
According to Netanyahu’s office, the meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Israel and the UAE amid growing regional tensions linked to the war with Iran. Reports suggested the talks took place in the Emirati city of Al-Ain, near the border with Oman.
However, the UAE quickly rejected the claims. In an official statement, the Emirati foreign ministry described reports of Netanyahu’s visit as “completely false” and stressed that relations with Israel are conducted openly through the framework of the Abraham Accords, not through secret arrangements.
The UAE also reaffirmed its commitment to transparent diplomacy, insisting that no unofficial Israeli military delegation had entered the country.
The controversy comes after Iran launched several attacks against targets in the UAE during the conflict. Tehran has repeatedly criticized the Emirates for its close relations with both Israel and the United States.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reacted strongly to Netanyahu’s remarks, accusing regional actors cooperating with Israel of betrayal. He warned that such actions would not be forgotten.
Meanwhile, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee revealed that Israel had sent Iron Dome missile defense systems to help protect the UAE against Iranian missile and drone attacks during the conflict. He described the military cooperation as a result of the growing partnership created under the Abraham Accords.
During the war, the UAE reported intercepting hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones targeting the country. Reports also emerged that the UAE may have carried out strikes against Iranian facilities, although Emirati authorities have not officially confirmed those operations.
Despite the ceasefire currently in place between the United States and Iran, tensions remain high across the region. Iran continues to restrict traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route, while Washington maintains pressure on Tehran through sanctions and naval restrictions.
Regional observers say the latest dispute over Netanyahu’s alleged visit highlights the fragile and shifting alliances shaping Middle Eastern politics amid continuing instability.
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