New Delhi: A Wall Street Journal report has claimed that United Arab Emirates (UAE) has secretly attacked Iran at the height of its war with the United States and Israel. The UAE had been the prime target of Iranian attacks after US-Israel jointly attacked Tehran. Iran cited use of Gulf’s territory in attacks against it by the US.
As per the report, the UAE is well equipped with advanced military gear provided by the West and is willing to use them to protect its territory and influence in the region.
Places UAE reportedly attacked in Iran
The report, citing sources, said the small emirate attacked Iran’s oil refinery in Lavan Island located in the Persian Gulf. It further said the UAE attacks took place when the US President was announcing the ceasefire in its five-week war against Iran. The attacks reportedly knocked out much of the oil infrastructure in Lavan after triggering a large fire during the attacks early in April.
During the time, Iran authorities acknowledged the attack by the ‘enemy’ and responded with droned and missiles against UAE and Kuwait. The report also suggested that the US wasn’t against the attacks and welcomes the involvement of UAE as the ceasefire was not in place at that time.
No UAE reaction
Meanwhile, there has been no response on the Wall Street Journal report from the UAE authorities. However, the Emirates cited its past statements where it said it has the right to respond militarily in case of a hostile act by its enemies. The US Department of Defense also declined to comment on the matter. Neither the White House has responded to the report and said the US President has every option on the table.
Experts believe that the UAE attacks on Iran gave Tehran an opportunity to create a rift among Gulf nations who said tried to mediate between US and Iran during the war. Iran has massively attacked oil refineries and other infrastructure in the Gulf nations claiming they provided bases to US for attacks.