After Signs of UAE-Iranian Rapprochement, Israel Reassesses Ties with Abu Dhabi
Al-Taj News –
Israel is closely monitoring developments in relations between Tehran and Abu Dhabi amid initial signs of a breakthrough between the two sides, with Israeli assessments indicating that the Strait of Hormuz represents a vital economic lifeline for the UAE and that economic interests are pushing it to reduce tensions with Iran.
Diplomatic sources familiar with the matter confirmed that Israel is carefully assessing developments between Tehran and Abu Dhabi, as initial signs of improved relations between the two sides have emerged, most notably the resumption of flights by flydubai and Emirates across Iranian airspace after months of suspension due to the military escalation.
Israel believes that this step is primarily linked to Abu Dhabi’s economic interests, as the Strait of Hormuz is of particular importance to the UAE as an economic lifeline, while pressing economic interests are driving the UAE to restore air and trade traffic and reduce tensions with Tehran.
Despite this rapprochement, diplomatic sources stressed that security cooperation between Israel and the UAE has “deepened significantly” since the outbreak of the war with Iran, including the deployment of the Iron Dome system to the UAE and the presence of Israeli soldiers to operate it.
The sources added that the joint security infrastructure has not been affected by the rapprochement with Tehran and that Abu Dhabi still views its relations with Israel and the United States as a strategic asset.
At the same time, tensions with Iran remain. Within less than a week, three vessels linked to ADNOC were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, with the UAE accusing Iran of being behind the attacks.
Abu Dhabi also paid a heavy price during the confrontation, as civilian and economic facilities were hit and Dubai International Airport experienced repeated disruptions.
Israel assesses that Abu Dhabi is attempting to strike a delicate balance between maintaining its security partnership with Israel and the United States while simultaneously reducing friction with Iran.
The UAE is also monitoring regional developments, including the defense agreement between Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Pakistan.
The sources stressed that the situation remains unresolved and that future developments will depend on Iran’s conduct. If Tehran resumes developing its military capabilities, Israel may once again be forced to consider military options.
Accordingly, the return of Emirati aircraft to Iranian airspace appears to be a cautious step toward restoring relations with Tehran, without indicating any retreat from the partnership with Israel and the United States.
Source: i24NEWS
