Iran has issued a stark warning to the United Arab Emirates, threatening widespread attacks on Emirati state assets if the US launches a ground invasion of Iranian territory from UAE soil. Senior Iranian officials claim Abu Dhabi has played an active role in the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Tehran, which has already disrupted global energy markets and killed at least 1,900 people.
The focus of a potential US operation centers on strategic Iranian islands in the Strait of Hormuz, including Kharg Island, which handles 90% of Iran’s oil exports, and Qashm Island, overlooking the critical shipping lane. A senior Iranian security official revealed that Tehran’s intelligence points to the UAE providing air facilities for operations against Iran, beyond merely hosting US military bases already targeted in retaliatory strikes. The official also accused Abu Dhabi of supporting Israeli “deception operations” and using advanced AI infrastructure for US and Israeli targeting data collection.
Tensions have escalated since retaliatory Iranian strikes hit energy infrastructure across Gulf states, including a notable explosion in the Fujairah industrial zone on March 3. A separate Iranian diplomatic official suggested that a US ground offensive appears imminent, with intelligence from allied states like Russia indicating preparations for an assault staged from the UAE. The diplomat noted that Iran has so far limited strikes to direct US and Israeli-linked targets in the region, but this restraint would collapse if a ground invasion occurs.
The conflict’s impact on energy markets remains severe, with the Strait of Hormuz—previously a conduit for 30% of global oil—still disrupted. US President Donald Trump has threatened to destroy Iran’s power plants if the strait isn’t reopened, though he has delayed action twice amid reported negotiations. Meanwhile, Reuters disclosed that thousands more US troops are expected to deploy to the Middle East, adding to an already significant military presence.
Iran’s calculated moves include a deception operation over Dubai, costing the UAE an estimated $100 million after air defenses fired hundreds of interceptor missiles at a decoy-equipped Iranian missile. As the war intensifies, with missiles and drones striking hotels, airports, and data centers across the region, Tehran’s latest warning signals a potential new front.
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