UAE weighs direct military role to break Iranian blockade of Strait of Hormuz

The United Arab Emirates is preparing to support the US and other allies in a potential military intervention to forcefully reopen the Strait of Hormuz following recent Iranian provocations, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. Should this maneuver proceed, the UAE could become the first Gulf nation to engage directly in the brewing conflict.

Arab officials indicate that the UAE is spearheading diplomatic efforts to secure a UN Security Council resolution authorizing military action to ensure the passage remains open. An Emirati official noted that diplomats are actively calling on the US, alongside military powers in Europe and Asia, to form a coalition for collective action.

The official emphasized that the Iranian leadership is increasingly prepared to use its leverage over the Strait of Hormuz as a weapon against the global economy. Consequently, the UAE is “actively evaluating” the assumption of a direct military role to guarantee the security of the waterway.

Abu Dhabi weighs mine-clearing and logistics support

Emirati officials are currently assessing specific military contributions, including mine-clearing operations and a range of logistical support services. Some Arab officials have further suggested that the US should intervene on several Iranian-controlled islands within the strategic strait. This includes Abu Musa, an island claimed by the UAE but held by Iran for nearly half a century.

In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed to a separate UN resolution condemning Iranian attacks on Emirati cities and a declaration from the International Maritime Organization denouncing the closure of the strait. The ministry asserted that a “broad global consensus” exists regarding the necessity of protecting freedom of navigation in the region.

Tensions harden across Gulf capitals

The report suggests a shifting tide in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states, where leadership is increasingly advocating for sustained pressure until the Iranian regime is neutralized or deposed. However, these nations have yet to commit their own military forces to direct combat.

Bahrain, a close US ally and host to the US Navy’s 5th Fleet, is also expected to support the UN resolution. Despite the push for action, analysts warn that the UAE’s active participation carries significant risks. Transitioning into an overt belligerent against Iran could ignite long-term regional tensions that persist far beyond the immediate conflict.

In response to these developments, Tehran has intensified its campaign against the UAE. After weeks of low-level activity, missile and drone strikes have surged, with approximately 50 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeting the UAE on Tuesday alone. Tehran has explicitly warned that any Gulf nation supporting operations against Iranian territory will see its vital civilian infrastructure targeted, specifically singling out the UAE.

The escalation has already begun to erode the UAE economy. The persistent threat of strikes has disrupted air traffic and tourism, chilled the real estate market, and triggered a wave of furloughs and layoffs. Furthermore, the violence is undermining the UAE’s carefully curated image as a “safe haven” in a volatile region.

Abu Dhabi has retaliated with stringent financial and administrative measures. Emirates airline recently announced it would no longer permit Iranian citizens to enter or transit through the country—a move that follows the government-mandated closure of the Iranian Hospital and the Iranian Club Dubai.

Hormuz: A “matter of vital survival” for Abu Dhabi

The UAE’s pivot is most evident in its resolve to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a passage described as critical for the nation’s energy exports, shipping lanes, and food security. Gulf officials believe that hesitant European and Asian nations will join a clearing operation if it receives the imprimatur of the UN Security Council.

However, the path to a resolution remains fraught. Russia and China are expected to exercise their veto power, while France has proposed a competing draft. Even in the absence of a UN mandate, officials suggest the UAE is prepared to join the war effort.

Military experts caution that a forced reopening of the strait is a formidable undertaking. Such an operation would likely require control over not just the waterway itself, but a 100-mile corridor of surrounding land. Adam Smith, the ranking Democrat on the US House Armed Services Committee, warned that Iran needs only a single drone, mine, or suicide boat to keep the strait under constant threat.

Nevertheless, the UAE possesses significant military and logistical assets. Its strategic bases, the deep-water port at Jebel Ali, and its proximity to the mouth of the strait are vital. These assets could be deployed for island interventions or to provide “shotgun” security for commercial tankers.

The UAE also boasts a small but potent air force. Its US-made F-16s have previously flown alongside US jets in operations against ISIS in Iraq. Backed by surveillance drones and a significant stockpile of US-supplied munitions, the UAE is positioned to alleviate the logistical strain on US and Israeli forces in a prolonged engagement.