UAE Tried in Vain to Get Saudis to Coordinate on Iran Response

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, left, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed in Abu Dhabi, UAE, in 2024.Source: UAE Presidential Court/Anadolu/Getty Images

The United Arab Emirates tried to persuade neighboring states including Saudi Arabia and Qatar to take part in a coordinated military response to Iran’s strikes and was left frustrated when they refused, according to people familiar with the matter.

UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed held a series of calls with fellow leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, shortly after the US and Israel began bombing Iran on Feb. 28, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing private conversations.