UAE ready to help US force open Strait of Hormuz

After one of the Iranian strikes on the UAE. Photo: AP Photo/Altaf Qadri

It is reported that UAE representatives have called on the US, as well as European and Asian states, to create an international coalition that can militarily unblock the strait. In their opinion, the Iranian authorities believe they are fighting for their own survival, and therefore are ready to even harm the global economy by blocking this important transport route.

The Emirates are also considering specific options for their participation in a possible operation. This could include mine clearance in the waters and other auxiliary actions. Additionally, the idea is being discussed in the region for the US to take control of several strategic islands in the strait, including Abu Musa island, which has long been controlled by Iran but is also claimed by the Emirates.

Internationally, there is broad support for the principle of free navigation in this strait. A relevant resolution, promoted by Bahrain, is being prepared in the UN Security Council, and a vote on it may take place in the near future.

Such a position by the Emirates signifies a significant shift in their policy. Previously, especially through Dubai, they had close economic ties with Iran and even tried to act as mediators between Iran and the US. Now, however, they are effectively supporting the course of the American leadership, which demands more active participation in military actions from its allies.

Other Persian Gulf countries, such as Saudi Arabia, also have a negative attitude towards Iran and would like to see it weakened, but are not yet ready to openly participate in combat operations.

Meanwhile, Iran is already launching strikes on UAE territory. According to reports, about 2,500 missiles and drones have been fired at the country, even more than at Israel. Attacks have intensified recently: about 50 different means of destruction were used in just one day. Iran has warned that it will destroy important infrastructure in any country in the region that supports military actions against it.

These attacks have already caused serious losses to the Emirates: air traffic has been disrupted, tourist flow has decreased, the real estate market has suffered, and layoffs have begun. The country's image as a stable and safe place has been threatened. In response, authorities have introduced a number of strict measures, including restrictions on Iranian citizens and the closure of some Iranian institutions in Dubai.

From a military point of view, the Emirates have relatively small but well-trained armed forces, including modern aviation with American F-16 aircraft, reconnaissance drones, and armament stockpiles. Their geographical location and developed infrastructure, such as Jebel Ali port, make the country a convenient base for possible US operations in the region.

At the same time, experts doubt that the strait can be reliably opened militarily. This requires controlling not only the waterway itself but also a large adjacent territory, which may even require ground troops. Moreover, Iran only needs to be able to threaten shipping, using minimal means, to disrupt traffic.

Analysts also warn of serious risks: countries in the region, by entering the war, may face even more aggressive actions from Iran and prolonged strikes on their infrastructure. Furthermore, even if the US declares victory, the problem may not be definitively resolved.

On the international stage, the situation is also complex: Russia and China may block the UN resolution, and France proposes a different solution. Nevertheless, even if diplomatic efforts fail, the Emirates are reportedly still ready to join military actions.

Iran, meanwhile, insists on maintaining permanent control over the strait and even introducing a payment system for its use. Persian Gulf countries are categorically against such an option, as it would effectively give Iran control over one of the world's most important maritime routes.

• 1
• 0
• 0
• 0
• 1
• 0
• 0
• 0