The UAE is pushing the UN Security Council to pass a resolution to authorise military action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if Iran blocks or threatens it, according to the Wall Street Journal.
If the UAE actively joins a military operation against Iran, it will be the first Gulf country to directly take part in military action.
The Hormuz Strait is critical for the Gulf states because it is used for both imports and exports, including essential items like food. It is also the route for the majority of Gulf oil exports, with roughly 20% of global oil supply passing through the strait.
According to UAE officials, Iran sees itself as fighting for survival and is willing to use control of the Strait of Hormuz to disrupt the global economy by blocking the sea route.
Emirati diplomats are also urging the US and military powers in Europe and Asia to form a coalition to secure the strait. It is also actively reviewing various roles, including clearing the strait of mines and providing other support services.
“There is broad global consensus that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved,” said the Emirati Foreign Ministry.
Some Arab officials also said the UAE believes the US should occupy strategic islands in the strait, including Abu Musa. Iran has controlled Abu Musa for about 50 years, but the UAE claims it as its territory.
At the same time, Bahrain, a close US ally that hosts the American Navy’s Fifth Fleet, is supporting a UN resolution proposed by the US. A vote on this resolution at the UN is expected to happen on Thursday.
The UAE has also barred Iranian citizens from entering or passing through the country amid the ongoing war, except those who hold golden visas, a special 10-year residency permit in the country.
“Nationals of Iran are not allowed to enter and transit,” wrote Emirates Airlines on its website.
Similarly, FlyDubai and Etihad have restricted Iranian nationals.
Earlier, Saudi Arabia said it may enter the war if Iran doesn’t stop its military aggression against its territory.
