Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he made a secret visit to the United Arab Emirates during the recent war with Iran and met UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, describing the meeting as a “historic breakthrough” in ties between the two countries.
The UAE swiftly denied the claim, saying reports of any undisclosed visit were “entirely unfounded” and stressing that its relationship with Israel is conducted openly under the Abraham Accords rather than through clandestine arrangements.
Netanyahu’s office did not specify when the alleged meeting took place. According to Reuters, a source familiar with the matter said the talks were held in Al Ain, near the Oman border, and lasted several hours.
The conflicting accounts come as cooperation between Israel and the UAE has drawn greater scrutiny during the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran.
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said earlier this week that Israel deployed Iron Dome air defence batteries and personnel to the UAE to help intercept Iranian missiles and drones.
Iran targeted the UAE repeatedly during the war, accusing Gulf states of aligning with Washington and Israel. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Netanyahu’s statement confirmed what Tehran had long suspected about Emirati cooperation with Israel, warning that those “colluding with Israel” would be held accountable.
The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this week that the UAE also carried out strikes on Iran, including on Lavan Island, though Abu Dhabi has not publicly acknowledged any direct military action.
Emirati presidential adviser Anwar Gargash said the UAE remained committed to diplomacy while reserving the right to defend itself.
The UAE and Israel established formal relations in 2020 under the Abraham Accords, brokered during President Donald Trump’s first term. Those ties have since expanded to include trade, technology and security cooperation.
A fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran has held for about a month, though tensions remain high as Tehran continues to restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
