UAE Hints at Intelligence Sharing With Israel Before October 7

Following a report in the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, the United Arab Emirates has not denied claims that it provided intelligence to Israel prior to the October 7th Hamas attacks. In response to the report, the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the government "does not comment on media stories or speculation regarding conversations between government leaders."

However, the ministry added that the UAE's involvement since October 7th has consistently aimed at de-escalation, regional stability, and preventing violence. "UAE and Israeli government officials have maintained open and direct lines of communication since the beginning of relations more than five years ago. When necessary, all relevant intelligence has been and continues to be shared between the relevant parties," the statement continued.

The Haaretz report alleged that in late September 2023, UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about Yahya Sinwar's intentions to attack Israel. According to the report, bin Zayed urged Netanyahu to take the threat seriously, but the Prime Minister reacted with relative calm. The Prime Minister's Office vehemently denied this, telling Haaretz, "An absolute lie! Prime Minister Netanyahu did not speak with the President of the United Arab Emirates during the period in question and did not receive any warning from him."