Axios: Israel Deployed Iron Dome to Defend UAE During Iran Conflict
Israel deployed its Iron Dome air defense system to the United Arab Emirates during the conflict with Iran, along with personnel to operate it, Axios reported, citing multiple sources. The move marked the first time the system was used outside Israel and the United States.
The deployment followed a wave of Iranian attacks in which Tehran launched hundreds of missiles and thousands of drones at the UAE. Most were intercepted, although some struck military and civilian targets. Israeli officials said the Iron Dome intercepted dozens of incoming missiles.
The decision was reportedly made after a phone call between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Cooperation between the two countries has deepened during the conflict, including intelligence sharing and coordination of military activities.
Israel’s assistance has been received positively in the UAE, with discussions under way on further strengthening the partnership. The two countries signed the Abraham Accords in 2020, and their relations are now considered to be at their strongest level to date, according to sources.