Did the UAE conduct military strikes against Iran, and if so, what were the key targets and context?

Yes, according to people familiar with the matter cited in the article, the UAE carried out multiple military strikes against Iran — both before and after the April 8 ceasefire between the US, Israel, and Tehran — in retaliation for Iranian attacks on UAE territory. One confirmed strike was a coordinated Israeli-UAE response to Iran’s attack on the UAE’s Borouge petrochemical facility; another targeted Iran’s largest petrochemical facility in Asaluyeh on May 6; and a third struck an Iranian refinery on Lavan Island in the Persian Gulf. These actions reflect the UAE’s assertion of its sovereign right to respond militarily to hostile acts, as stated in its official declaration.

How have UAE-Israel security ties evolved during this conflict, and what concrete cooperation has taken place?

UAE-Israel security ties have deepened significantly during the conflict, culminating in direct operational coordination: the two countries jointly planned and executed retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets, including the May 6 attack on Asaluyeh. Additionally, Israel deployed Iron Dome missile defense batteries and supporting personnel to the UAE during the war, as confirmed by US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. This cooperation occurred alongside high-level diplomatic engagement, including a rare phone call between UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which Netanyahu expressed solidarity following Iranian attacks on the UAE.

UAE Allegedly Strikes Iran Targets Including Petrochemical Facilities Amid Israel Ties

May 12, 2026

The UAE allegedly retaliated against Iranian attacks by striking targets including an Iranian refinery and petrochemical facility, coordinating with Israel following damage to its own Borouge plant.

bloomberg

2026-05-12

UAE Allegedly Strikes Iran Targets Including Petrochemical Facilities Amid Israel Ties

UAE Allegedly Strikes Iran Targets Including Petrochemical Facilities Amid Israel Ties

FAQ