UAE Explores Military Role in Strait of Hormuz Operation Amid Escalating Iran Tensions
The United Arab Emirates is reportedly preparing to support potential military operations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and is lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution to authorize such action, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing Arab officials. If the UAE proceeds, it would become the first Gulf state to formally participate in the conflict as a combatant.
Emirati diplomats have urged the United States and military powers in Europe and Asia to form a coalition to secure the strategic waterway, which handles approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. According to officials familiar with the discussions, the UAE is evaluating potential military contributions, including mine-clearing operations and logistical support.
The UAE has also reportedly suggested that the United States consider occupying Iranian-held islands in the strait, including Abu Musa—a territory claimed by Abu Dhabi for decades.
The reported shift in UAE posture comes amid intensified Iranian attacks on Gulf states. On April 1, 2026, UAE air defense systems intercepted five ballistic missiles and 35 drones originating from Iran, according to the UAE Ministry of Defense. Since the onset of hostilities, UAE defenses have engaged a total of 438 ballistic missiles, 19 cruise missiles, and 2,012 drones, the ministry reported.
These attacks have resulted in casualties, including two members of the UAE Armed Forces killed while on duty, one Moroccan civilian under military contract, and nine civilians of Pakistani, Nepalese, Bangladeshi, Palestinian, and Indian nationalities. An additional 190 individuals of diverse nationalities sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Iran has warned it will target civilian infrastructure in any Gulf state that supports military operations against its territory. Tehran has framed its actions as defensive responses to what it characterizes as aggression.
The UAE has framed its position around international norms, citing UN resolutions condemning Iran's attacks and disruptions to maritime traffic. The UAE Foreign Ministry stated there is "broad global consensus that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved."
The UN Security Council recently adopted a resolution condemning Iran's attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council states and demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities. The resolution passed with 13 votes in favor and two abstentions.
While Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have expressed support for continuing pressure on Iran's leadership, they have stopped short of committing their own militaries to direct combat operations.
Military analysts caution that reopening the Strait of Hormuz by force presents significant operational challenges. Securing the waterway would likely require control not only of maritime routes but also of adjacent coastal areas—a complex undertaking with uncertain outcomes.
"I don't think we can do it," said Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA), former chair of the House Armed Services Committee. "All Iran has to do is keep the strait under threat—one drone, one mine, one small suicide boat."
The ongoing conflict has already impacted the UAE's economy, disrupting air travel, affecting tourism, and creating uncertainty in property markets. The UAE has responded with measures including restrictions on Iranian nationals and the closure of Iranian-linked institutions in Dubai.
As diplomatic and military calculations continue, the UAE faces a consequential decision: whether to maintain its current defensive posture or take a more active role in efforts to secure one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints.
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