DELMARVA – The United States Ambassador to Israel disclosed Tuesday that Israel deployed Iron Dome missile defense systems along with military personnel to the United Arab Emirates during Iran-related conflicts.
Ambassador Mike Huckabee’s revelation highlights the deepening military cooperation between Israel and the UAE, two nations that share concerns about Iranian threats, while a fragile ceasefire continues to hold. The strategic Strait of Hormuz remains under Tehran’s influence, and US-Iran diplomatic talks have stalled, creating potential for renewed hostilities.
Speaking at the Tel Aviv Conference in Israel, Huckabee, who previously served as Arkansas governor and sought the presidency, praised the partnership that emerged from diplomatic agreements.
“I’d like to say a word of appreciation for United Arab Emirates, the first Abraham accord member,” Huckabee stated during his conference appearance. “Just look at the benefits. Israel just sent them Iron Dome batteries and personnel to help operate them.”
The UAE, consisting of seven emirates along the Arabian Peninsula, established formal diplomatic ties with Israel in 2020.
UAE officials have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding Huckabee’s statements.
The ambassador expressed confidence that more regional nations would join the Abraham Accords, the landmark 2020 agreement that also brought Bahrain into formal relations with Israel.
Nevertheless, numerous Arab nations remain angry over Israel’s extensive military operations following Hamas’s 2023 assault, which devastated Gaza and targeted Iranian-backed groups throughout the Middle East. Israeli forces currently occupy portions of both Lebanon and Syria.
“The Gulf states now understood they will have to make a choice — is it more likely they will be attacked by Iran or Israel?” Huckabee questioned. “They see that Israel helped us and Iran attacked us. Israel is not trying to take over your land, and is not sending missiles to you.”
