UAE pursues Iran détente while deepening military ties with US and Israel
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The UAE is pursuing a dual-track strategy of diplomatic outreach to Iran while deepening military and security cooperation with the United States and Israel, a balancing act driven by economic interests and regional stability concerns. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has tasked three of his brothers with managing contacts with Tehran, according to the Financial Times. The approach faces renewed strain after Iran's recent missile and drone attacks on Gulf states.
Diplomatic Channels
President Mohamed bin Zayed has tasked his brothers—Vice President Mansour, Foreign Minister Abdullah, and National Security Adviser Tahnoon—with managing Iran relations. The Financial Times reports recent phone calls between Mansour and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, and between Abdullah and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. The UAE intensified efforts after a June 12 memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington, and following a fragile US-Iran cease-fire.
Iranian Community Measures
During the conflict, the UAE suspended residency permits of about 20,000 Iranians abroad. Radio Farda reports some permits are being reactivated, but hundreds remain suspended, and tourist visas for Iranians are still not being issued. An activist says no new residency applications are processed, though expiring permits are renewed.
Economic Stakes
Dubai hosts hundreds of thousands of Iranians, and Iran's large consumer market makes it a vital trade and re-export hub. The Financial Times quotes a Dubai official noting that economic considerations are key to the UAE's outreach, as the emirate seeks to shield its commercial interests from regional instability.
What's Next
The UAE is expected to continue its delicate balancing act, but further Iranian attacks could test the limits of its neutrality. It remains unclear whether the diplomatic backchannel can prevent escalation or if military partnerships with Israel and the US will ultimately provoke Tehran.
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UAE pursues Iran détente while deepening military ties with US and Israel
