Iran threatens the UAE with retaliation over alleged collusion with Israel and the US, escalating tensions amid a fragile ceasefire in the ongoing US-Iran war.
Story Highlights
- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accuses UAE of unforgivable collusion with Israel after Netanyahu reveals secret wartime visit.[2]
- Iran claims prior knowledge of Netanyahu’s trip via security services, labeling UAE as hosting hostile bases.[1]
- UAE denies the visit outright, stressing public relations under Abraham Accords framework.[1]
- Threats come as US naval forces counter Iranian attacks in Strait of Hormuz, risking broader regional conflict.[2]
Iranian Accusations Target UAE-Israel Ties
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly revealed information Iran’s security services had long conveyed to leadership. Araghchi called enmity with Iran a foolish gamble and collusion with Israel unforgivable. He warned those colluding to sow division will be held accountable.[2] This followed Netanyahu’s office disclosure of a secret UAE visit during the US-Iran war.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned Abu Dhabi’s cooperation with US and Israeli forces, citing hosting of military bases as threats to Iran’s security. The ministry rejected UAE claims of Iranian missile and drone launches, stating defensive actions targeted only American aggression.[1] Iranian lawmaker Ali Khezrian classified UAE as hosting hostile bases under Iran’s security doctrine.
UAE Rejects Claims Amid Ceasefire Strains
United Arab Emirates Foreign Ministry denied reports of Netanyahu’s visit. Officials emphasized relations with Israel remain public under the Abraham Accords. UAE air defenses engaged missile and drone attacks reportedly from Iran, with no damage reported.[2] This occurred hours after US forces thwarted attacks on Navy ships in Strait of Hormuz and struck Iranian facilities.[2]
Netanyahu’s former spokesman Ziv Agmon confirmed accompanying the prime minister to UAE, meeting Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed with warm reception. Agmon described it as a historic breakthrough during wartime.[2] UAE denial followed Iranian statements by minutes, highlighting rapid diplomatic friction.[1]
Broader US-Iran Conflict Context
The US-Iran war ceasefire, effective since April 8, faces unraveling from recent strikes. Iran demands end to US naval blockade, release of frozen assets, and compensation. President Donald Trump rejected Tehran’s peace proposal.[2] US Treasury sanctioned entities aiding Iran’s drone production.[2]
What appears to be referencing Netanyahu’s trip to the UAE, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said:
“Netanyahu has now publicly revealed what Iran's security services long ago conveyed to our leadership. Enmity with the Great People of Iran is a foolish gamble. Collusion… pic.twitter.com/yqwaliTleO
— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) May 13, 2026
Iran accused Kuwait of attacking an Iranian boat near a US-used island, detaining four citizens, and reserved right to respond.[2] Tehran called for war end on all fronts, including Lebanon where Israel fights Iran-backed Hezbollah. Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint for oil shipments.[2] These events underscore Trump’s administration resolve against Iranian aggression while allies like UAE and Israel coordinate publicly.
Sources:
[1] Web – Iranian FM threatens UAE, claims Tehran knew of Netanyahu’s visit to …
[2] Web – Iranian FM threatens UAE, claims Tehran knew …
