UAE Denies Netanyahu's Claims of 'Historic Secret Visit' Amid Iran War

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Jerusalem: In the midst of rising regional tensions, the Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu claimed to have undertaken a "secret" visit to the United Arab Emirates during the current dispute with Iran. He described the visit as a diplomatic and security milestone.

According to statements published by his office, Netanyahu visited the Emirati city of Al Ain on March 26 and met with His Highness Shaikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, during the height of the tension between Iran and Israel. He emphasised the expanding strategic collaboration between the two nations under the Abraham Accords and declared the visit to be a "historic breakthrough."

The revelation corresponded with allegations that Israel had secretly supplied air defence support, including military personnel and Iron Dome-related equipment, to safeguard crucial areas in the UAE throughout the fight. The reports highlighted the expanding defence links between Israel and a number of Gulf states since the normalisation agreements were signed in 2020, but they have not been independently confirmed.

However, the UAE promptly rejected Netanyahu's assertions. Abu Dhabi insisted that its contacts with Israel are carried out openly and through formal diplomatic channels, calling rumours of a secret visit "entirely unfounded" in a statement.

“The UAE’s relations are based on openness and mutual respect, not secrecy or clandestine arrangements,” the statement added, denying claims that Netanyahu entered the nation during the conflict without being made public.

The revelation gained attention around the Middle East during a period of growing tension brought on by the Iranian rivalry, which has caused disruptions to regional trade lines and increased concerns about shipping security in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.