Iran has reportedly informed Saudi Arabia and Oman that it plans to 'crush' the United Arab Emirates, according to a Middle East Eye report citing The Wall Street Journal. The plan is described as Tehran’s response to U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran. The report suggests the move aims to deepen divisions between Abu Dhabi and its Gulf neighbors, particularly Saudi Arabia, amid long-standing regional tensions.

The report notes that the UAE’s withdrawal from OPEC signaled growing friction with Saudi Arabia, rather than unity against Iran. Despite Saudi displeasure with Iran’s rhetoric, both countries have maintained dialogue. Iran’s warnings indicate awareness of rifts among Gulf monarchies, all of which are U.S. partners. The UAE has been the most vocal Gulf state against Iran, suffering extensive missile and drone attacks during the conflict.

The war has strengthened the UAE-Israel partnership, with speculation that Abu Dhabi joined U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. Meanwhile, Dubai’s tourism and finance sectors have been hit hard by the conflict, though the UAE continues to take a strong stance against Tehran.