image sourced from original article at The United Arab Emirates has firmly denied reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a secret visit to the country during the recent conflict between Israel and Iran. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected claims that it hosted either Netanyahu or an Israeli military delegation, calling the reports entirely unfounded.
Officials stressed that relations with Israel are conducted openly under the Abraham Accords and are not based on unofficial or undisclosed arrangements. The ministry urged media organisations to maintain accuracy and professionalism, warning against the spread of unverified information.
The reports had alleged that Netanyahu met with President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and achieved a historic breakthrough in bilateral ties. Iran reacted strongly to the claims, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warning Gulf states against closer alignment with Israel and accusing them of collusion.
Despite the denial, ties between the United Arab Emirates and Israel have deepened since normalising relations in 2020, with expanded economic, diplomatic and security cooperation. The controversy also follows disclosures that Israel deployed air defence systems and personnel to the Emirates during the conflict, underscoring growing coordination amid heightened regional tensions.
