Netanyahu Holds Secret Meeting with UAE President Amid Regional Tensions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a brief, unannounced visit to the United Arab Emirates, meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi. The prime minister departed from Ben Gurion Airport on a private jet and returned to Israel several hours later. The meeting, which was kept secret until after Netanyahu's return, reportedly focused on the threat posed by Iran.

The visit occurred against a backdrop of reports that the UAE leader had warned Netanyahu prior to the October 7th events. The trip is seen as a gesture of support from the UAE leadership towards the Israeli prime minister. Both leaders emphasized efforts to build a coalition against Iran, with Abu Dhabi maintaining a firm stance by suspending trade ties and banning Iranian aircraft from its airspace.

This encounter highlights the ongoing rapprochement between Israel and the UAE. As a sign of their partnership, Israel had previously provided the UAE with its Iron Dome missile defense system and technical specialists. Diplomatic sources in Abu Dhabi indicated that Israel's assistance during the recent conflict would be remembered by the UAE leadership.

Furthermore, the UAE was among the few Arab nations whose representatives remained in the UN General Assembly hall during Netanyahu's speech, signaling support for Israel's position. Netanyahu had previously visited Abu Dhabi discreetly during a period of military confrontation with Iran.