Common foe, fast friends: Why Israel-UAE ties are warming

Despite the supposed ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, the United Arab Emirates came under missile and drone attacks at least twice this week. The first attack resulted in injuries to at least three Indian nationals. In the second, a drone sparked a fire at a key oil facility that handles about 1.7 million barrels per day, currently about half of daily Emirati oil exports. (Because the United Arab Emirates borders the Gulf of Oman, it can bypass the Strait of Hormuz when shipping oil.)

The Emiratis have come under fire more than any of Iran’s other putative enemies, including Israel. As of late March, it had been attacked by 372 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles and 1,826 drones. The number has increased by more than 1,000 attacks since then.

In their efforts to defend themselves, the Emiratis turned to Israel for assistance. Israel has responded with both equipment and personnel. This marks the first time that the Jewish state has provided troops to an Arab counterpart.

The Israeli equipment package is both sophisticated and extensive. It includes the Iron Dome air defense system, which consists of a tracking radar, a battle management and control system, and interceptor missiles, as well as the Iron Beam laser defense system and the Spectro drone detection system.

Iran has threatened the United Arab Emirates with “severe consequences” if it continues to receive Israeli support. Tehran’s admonition is unlikely to faze President Mohammed bin Zayed, who is far more hostile toward Tehran than his Gulf........

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