Secret Netanyahu Visit to UAE Revealed Amid Iran Conflict, Abu Dhabi Denies Reports
Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has disclosed that the Israeli Prime Minister made an unannounced trip to the United Arab Emirates during the recent conflict with Iran and the subsequent ceasefire period, meeting with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed. According to Netanyahu’s office, the talks resulted in a “historic breakthrough” and a “qualitative leap” in bilateral relations.
Israel’s Channel 12 reported that the meeting took place amid concerns over a possible resumption of war with Iran, with the UAE also facing security repercussions during the recent clashes. The main focus of the discussions was political and security coordination regarding regional developments.
Simultaneously with the ceasefire announcement between Iran and the United States, David Zinai, head of Israel’s internal security agency (Shin Bet), made an unprecedented visit to the UAE. Additionally, a security delegation led by Amir Baram, Director-General of Israel’s Ministry of Defense, met with officials from the UAE Ministry of Defense in Abu Dhabi as part of preparations for potential joint action by Tel Aviv and Washington against Iran.
In response, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement strongly denying the reports about Netanyahu’s visit or hosting Israeli military delegations. The ministry emphasized that Abu Dhabi-Tel Aviv relations are conducted openly within the framework of the Abraham Accords and did not confirm any secret meetings.
Meanwhile, Ziv Agmon, former head of Netanyahu’s office, claimed that Mohammed bin Zayed personally escorted Netanyahu from the airport to the palace and gave him a special reception. Agmon stated that the Israeli delegation was welcomed by members of bin Zayed’s family and several prominent Emirati figures.
