UAE Confirms Israeli Prime Minister's Visit Amid Security Concerns

The United Arab Emirates' official news agency confirmed on Monday that UAE 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 kept secret until its conclusion.

News outlet Channel 12 initially reported on Netanyahu's secret trip to Abu Dhabi, stating he traveled on a private jet and returned the same day. The report indicated Netanyahu and his entourage arrived on several aircraft, with the main discussion held privately between the two leaders.

Following the report, the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) filed a complaint with the chief military censor against Channel 12. The Shin Bet alleged that broadcasting the visit while Netanyahu's plane was still en route to Israel constituted a severe censorship violation and endangered the Prime Minister, his wife, his entourage, and security forces. The agency also claimed the report exposed operational methods and jeopardized future operations. The Mossad (National Intelligence Agency) also deemed the publication a serious security threat.

The Prime Minister's office later issued a statement confirming the visit and revealing the full Israeli delegation. The statement reiterated that the initial report endangered the lives of the Prime Minister, his wife, and the delegation, which included the heads of the Mossad and the National Security Council, the military secretary, and security personnel.