The United Arab Emirates is reportedly preparing to join potential military efforts alongside the United States and Saudi Arabia to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz by force, following escalating tensions with Iran.
The move comes after Iran allegedly carried out attacks on UAE territory last month, significantly heightening security concerns across the Gulf region.
If confirmed, this would mark the first time a Gulf nation directly participates in military operations against Iran, signaling a major shift in regional dynamics.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors, with nearly 20 percent of global oil supply passing through its narrow waters.
For Gulf countries, including the UAE, the strait is not only essential for oil exports but also for imports of vital goods such as food and industrial supplies.
According to Emirati officials, Iran views the current conflict as existential and may attempt to leverage its control over the strait to disrupt global trade and exert pressure on international actors.
Blocking or restricting access to the waterway could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy, particularly energy markets already under strain.
Diplomatic efforts are also underway, with the UAE urging the United States and allied powers across Europe and Asia to form a multinational coalition aimed at safeguarding freedom of navigation.
Emirati authorities have emphasized that maintaining open sea lanes through the Strait of Hormuz is a matter of global consensus and economic necessity.
In addition to combat operations, the UAE is reportedly reviewing various support roles, including mine-clearing missions and logistical assistance. These measures are intended to ensure that maritime traffic can resume safely and efficiently if the situation escalates further.
Regional tensions have also revived longstanding territorial disputes. UAE officials have reiterated claims over Abu Musa, an island currently controlled by Iran for nearly five decades.
Some Arab officials suggest that the UAE believes strategic control of such islands could be crucial in securing the strait.
Meanwhile, Bahrain, a close US ally hosting the American Navy’s Fifth Fleet, is backing a United Nations resolution proposed by Washington. The resolution, expected to be voted on soon, seeks to address maritime security concerns and de-escalate tensions in the region.
Amid the ongoing crisis, the UAE has also imposed strict travel restrictions on Iranian nationals. Major carriers, including Emirates, Flydubai, and Etihad Airways, have suspended entry and transit for most Iranian citizens, with limited exceptions for holders of long-term residency permits.
Earlier statements from Saudi Arabia have further intensified the situation, with Riyadh warning it may join military action if Iran continues its aggressive posture in the region.
As diplomatic and military options remain on the table, the coming days are expected to be critical in determining whether the Gulf region moves toward de-escalation or a broader conflict with global implications.