UAE Confirms Israeli Prime Minister's Visit Amid Security Concerns

The official news agency of the United Arab Emirates confirmed that President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a visit to the UAE on Sunday. The leaders discussed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen them. The meeting, which focused on the Iranian threat, was reportedly secret, with Netanyahu traveling on a private jet and returning the same day.

News outlet Channel 12 first reported on the visit while Netanyahu's plane was still in the air, prompting a severe security alert. The Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) filed a complaint with the chief military censor against Channel 12, alleging that the report constituted a serious censorship violation that endangered the Prime Minister, his wife, entourage, and security forces. The Shin Bet also stated the report exposed operational methods and jeopardized future operations. The Mossad (National Intelligence Agency) also deemed the publication a grave security threat.

The Prime Minister's office later issued a statement confirming the visit and revealing the Israeli delegation included the head of the Mossad, the National Security Advisor, Major General Guy Marzano, the head of security for the Shin Bet, and air and security crews. The statement emphasized the danger posed by the premature publication to the lives of those involved.