UAE

Israel claims that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a secret trip to the United Arab Emirates during the height of the Iran war. The UAE has denied the visit took place. Conflicting Claims Israel’s foreign ministry issued a statement saying Netanyahu conducted the covert diplomatic mission to coordinate regional security strategy. The UAE officially denied the visit, stating that no records indicate Netanyahu was in the country. Background The Iran war period saw intense diplomatic activity among Middle Eastern nations over security and energy interests. Netanyahu has previously championed normalization agreements with several Arab states through the Abraham Accords framework. ...

Crypto.com Gets UAE Regulatory License Crypto.com’s UAE entity became the first VASP to receive a UAE central bank SVF license tied to Dubai government crypto payment services. This marks another milestone in the UAE’s efforts to position itself as a leading crypto hub in the Middle East.

UAE Intercepts Iranian Missiles and Drones Amid Escalating Tensions The UAE has successfully intercepted missiles and drones launched from Iran amid escalating regional tensions, according to multiple reports. The interception occurred against the backdrop of the US-Iran exchange of fire in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE, a key US ally in the region, relied on its air defense systems during the incident. No details on casualties have been released. UAE officials have not yet issued a detailed statement on the interception operation. ...

US Defense Secretary Hegseth confirmed that the Iran ceasefire is currently holding, CBS News reported. However, tensions remain elevated following Iran’s attacks on UAE targets and ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Latest Developments Ceasefire Status: Hegseth confirmed the ceasefire is holding for now Iran Attacks: Iran previously targeted UAE assets and vessels in the Strait of Hormuz US Response: The US has struck Iranian boats in response Diplomatic Dynamics Trump has again criticized Pope Leo’s stance on the Iran conflict, potentially complicating Secretary of State Rubio’s planned visit to the Vatican this week. Trump accused the pope of “endangering lives,” highlighting a divergence between the US administration and the Vatican on Iran policy. ...

Growing rift between UAE and Saudi Arabia intensifies over Iran policy and economic competition.

Indian PM Narendra Modi strongly condemned Iranian drone attacks on the UAE’s Fujairah oil zone, which injured three Indian nationals. India’s MEA called for free and unimpeded navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

US forces strike Iranian fast boats in the Strait of Hormuz while Iran attacks UAE oil infrastructure. A Maersk US-flagged vessel exits the strait under military escort.

Iran launched its first attack on UAE targets since the early April ceasefire, firing four cruise missiles at Fujairah and hitting an oil facility with a drone, as the U.S. initiated Project Freedom to escort ships through the strait.

OPEC+ holds its first ministerial meeting since the UAE’s surprise withdrawal, attempting to demonstrate unity amid the Strait of Hormuz crisis.

The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority announces the full resumption of normal air traffic operations as of May 2, 2026, lifting temporary precautionary measures imposed since the Iran war began on February 28.