By CNBCTV18.com
April 1, 2026, 4:06:35 PM IST (Published)
2 Min Read
The United Arab Emirates is reportedly preparing to join military efforts with the United States and Saudi Arabia to force open the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments, after Iran attacked UAE territory last month, the Wall Street Journal reports.
Abu Dhabi is urging the UN Security Council to authorize military action to reopen the strait if Iran blocks or threatens it. If the UAE actively participates in an operation against Iran, it would be the first Persian Gulf country to take direct military action in the conflict.
The strait is crucial for Gulf states for imports and exports, including food, and carries about 20% of global oil flows. UAE officials say Iran views control of the strait as a tool to pressure the global economy and is prepared to use it.
Emirati diplomats are pushing the US and military powers in Europe and Asia to form a coalition to secure the waterway. The UAE is reviewing roles such as mine-clearance and other support services. “There is broad global consensus that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved,” the Emirati Foreign Ministry said.
Some Arab officials say the UAE wants the US to occupy strategic islands in the strait, including Abu Musa, which Iran has controlled for about 50 years but which the UAE claims. Bahrain, host to the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet, supports a US-proposed UN resolution; a vote is expected Thursday.
The UAE has barred most Iranian citizens from entering or transiting the country amid the war, exempting holders of the 10-year “golden visa.” Emirates Airlines, FlyDubai and Etihad have all restricted travel for Iranian nationals.
Earlier, Saudi Arabia said it may enter the war if Iran does not halt military aggression against its territory.
(Edited by: Sudarsanan Mani)
