The United Arab Emirates has indicated that it may join a US-led naval operation in the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions continue among Iran, the United States, and Israel. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, revealed the possibility during an online discussion hosted by the US-based Council on Foreign Relations on March 17. He said maintaining global trade and energy supply is a shared responsibility but noted that no final agreement has been reached and discussions are ongoing.
Gargash added that after the current conflict ends, a regional framework will be needed to prevent Iran from destabilizing the Middle East through its nuclear, missile, or drone programs. The statement came a day after US President Donald Trump said he had discussed keeping the Strait of Hormuz open with the French president and urged countries to deploy warships to ensure safe oil transport.
The UAE’s potential involvement underscores growing international coordination efforts to secure vital maritime routes amid heightened regional instability.