- The United Arab Emirates has reportedly carried out secret strikes against Iran, marking the first time a Gulf nation has been involved in the conflict started by the US and Israel earlier this year.
- These strikes included an attack on a refinery on Iran’s Lavan Island in the Persian Gulf in early April, around the same period Donald Trump announced a temporary truce.
- The apparent attacks indicate the UAE's willingness to use force to protect its economic interests, following Tehran's attempts to damage its oil and gas facilities.
- Iran acknowledged an enemy attack on the Lavan Island refinery and subsequently launched several missile and drone strikes against Kuwait and the UAE in retaliation.
- While other Arab states had largely been reluctant to engage in the war and lobbied against US military action, the US reportedly welcomed the UAE's participation, with analysts suggesting Iran will now aim to create a rift between the UAE and other Gulf nations.
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