The UAE is about to join the Iran war, potentially helping Trump gain access to the Strait of Hormuz

 Direct translation

Reports surface that this Middle Eastern country is about to formally join the war, potentially helping Trump gain access to the Strait of Hormuz

Editor : Zhongkang / Source: World Journal / https://www.aboluowang.com/2026/0401/2366847.html /  Image : UAE attacked by Iran

Several Arab officials revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is prepared to assist the United States and its allies in forcibly opening the Strait of Hormuz, potentially becoming the first Gulf state to formally enter the conflict.

The Wall Street Journal reported on 31 March 2026 that the UAE is lobbying the UN Security Council to pass a resolution proposed by Bahrain authorizing countries to use "all necessary means" to defend commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz. "All necessary means" is a diplomatic term for the use of force. The draft resolution is expected to be voted on on 2 April 2026. Even if the resolution is vetoed by China and Russia, or if France proposes a different version, the UAE is still prepared to join the conflict.

Gulf officials stated that the UAE believes that if authorized by the UN Security Council, previously hesitant Eurasian countries will be willing to assist in clearing the strait.

Arab officials indicated that Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states are also shifting their stance against the Iranian regime, hoping the war will continue until Tehran is incapacitated or collapses, but have not yet committed to military intervention.

This UAE official confirmed that the country is actively reviewing its military role in ensuring the security of the Strait of Hormuz, including assisting in mine clearance and providing other support. Some Arab officials also stated that the UAE advocates for the U.S. to occupy Abu Musa Island in the Sea of ​​Hormoz, an island controlled by Iran but claimed by the UAE.

The report notes that the U.S.-Israel conflict triggered indiscriminate retaliation from Tehran against its neighbours, resulting in the firing of over 2,500 missiles and drones at the UAE—a number exceeding that of Israel and other Gulf states that initiated the conflict. The UAE's now hardened stance indicates a significant shift in its strategic thinking and political position towards Iran.

Meanwhile, Tehran has recently escalated its offensive against the UAE, explicitly stating that it will destroy civilian infrastructure within the UAE if the country supports U.S.-Israel actions.

Sabb, a researcher at the Royal Institute of International Affairs and a former Middle East advisor to the Pentagon, stated that the decision to join the military operation sends a public signal of Arab support for fighting Iran and provides more operational options for both the war against Iran and attempts to reopen the Strait of ​​Hormuz.

The UAE, with its bases, the Jebel Ali deep-water port, and its proximity to the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, can serve as a crucial forward operating base for US-led operations. The UAE Air Force, equipped with US-made F-16 fighter jets, along with surveillance drones, bombs, and short-range missile stockpiles, can also support escort operations and coordinate strikes against Iranian targets.