One of Israel’s famed Iron Dome systems sent to United Arab Emirates
Israel quietly deployed one of its Iron Dome air-defense systems to the United Arab Emirates in the early days of the conflict with Iran, according to officials familiar with the operation.
The decision came from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who authorized sending both the system and dozens of Israeli personnel to operate it. The move was intended to help shield the UAE from a wave of Iranian retaliation and marked the first time Israel has provided a Gulf nation with its advanced missile defense technology. Officials said the system successfully intercepted numerous incoming threats during the fighting.
The deployment followed a direct conversation between Netanyahu and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, reflecting the growing military and diplomatic ties between the two countries since their 2020 normalization agreement. Leaders in Abu Dhabi have since expressed appreciation for the support they received from both Israel and the United States.
According to the UAE’s Ministry of Defense, Iran launched roughly 550 ballistic and cruise missiles at the country, along with more than 2,200 drones. Analysts say the scale of the attack exceeded what Iran directed at any other nation during the conflict, signaling Tehran’s intent to challenge the UAE over its alignment with Israel.
Although most of the incoming weapons were intercepted, some managed to penetrate defenses and strike both military and civilian locations. Dubai was among the areas hit multiple times, with drones reportedly damaging sites including its International Financial Center, a U.S. consulate facility, and nearby airfields.
In addition to Israel and the United States, Emirati officials also acknowledged support from several Western nations, including France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Australia.
One official described the experience as a turning point, saying it made clear which countries the UAE could rely on in a time of crisis.
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