The United Arab Emirates is reportedly preparing to help the US fight Iran and open the Strait of Hormuz by force after being repeatedly struck by Iranian drones and missiles since the war began, Arab officials said.
The UAE is lobbying the United Nations Security Council to pass a resolution that would authorize a military operation to end Iran’s grip on the critical trade route, officials told the Wall Street Journal.
The operation would see the UAE become the first Persian Gulf country to join the war against Iran, with Abu Dhabi calling on European and Asian military powers to join the coalition to open the strait.
Along with opening the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE is also calling for the US to occupy strategic islands near the oil-critical Strait of Hormuz, including Abu Musa, which Abu Dhabi claims but is currently held by Iran, officials said.
Bahrain, a close US ally in the region that hosts America’s Fifth Fleet, is sponsoring the UN resolutions, with a vote expected on Thursday, according to the WSJ.
Russia and China, allies of Iran who sit on the UN’s Security Council, would veto the resolution.
Nations in the Gulf, Europe and Asia have all called for the Strait of Hormuz to be opened as it serves as a key pipeline for 20% of the world’s oil supply.
Iran effectively closed the Strait to anyone it deems its enemies after the US and Israel waged war on the Islamic Republic.
Tehran approved a bill on Tuesday to charge a toll to all ships passing through the strait, demanding up to $2 million per vessel.
President Trump has repeatedly ordered Iran to open the waterway after oil prices surged, with the US calling on its allies to help open the strait by force.
Other countries, however, have hesitated to commit their militaries to open the waterways given the threats from Iranian mines and drones.
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The UAE, which has been vocal against Iran and its closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has seen attacks from Tehran soar in recent days after the Gulf state signaled its willingness to join the war.
Iran fired nearly 50 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones against the UAE on Tuesday alone, leaving at least four people injured after debris fell on their Dubai home following an interception.
Repeated attacks near the Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest transportation hubs, have also led to reduced air traffic and tourism to the UAE.
