Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during an unannounced diplomatic visit focused on bilateral relations and regional issues. (Images: X)
Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially confirmed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent visit to the country, ending speculation over his unannounced trip reported by Israeli media. According to the UAE’s state news agency WAM, Netanyahu met UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with discussions focused on bilateral relations and ways to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
Israel also confirmed the visit, saying the meeting covered regional developments and efforts to deepen ties between Israel and UAE.
Netanyahu’s one-day visit took place as the Middle East continues to witness heightened tensions linked to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict and wider regional security concerns. Netanyahu’s office said the discussions focused on “strengthening relations between the two countries” and addressing regional challenges. The visit was first reported by Israeli media outlets, including Channel 12, KAN, Haaretz and The Jerusalem Post, before official confirmation from both governments.
The timing of Netanyahu’s UAE visit has drawn attention due to a recent Israeli media report claiming that UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed had allegedly warned Netanyahu about possible security concerns before Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. The report claimed that Netanyahu did not share the alleged warning with Israeli security officials. However, Netanyahu has rejected the claims.
Israeli media reports suggested that discussions during the UAE visit also involved the controversy surrounding the alleged warning.
Following reports about the visit, Netanyahu’s office said Israel’s Shin Bet security agency had filed a complaint against Channel 12 over the coverage. The prime minister’s office alleged that the report violated military censorship rules and potentially created security risks for Netanyahu, his family and members of the delegation. The delegation reportedly included Mossad chief David Barnea and other senior Israeli security officials.
The UAE and Israel established diplomatic relations in 2020 through the US-backed Abraham Accords marking a significant shift in ties between Israel and several Arab countries. Since then, both nations have expanded cooperation in areas including trade, technology, tourism and security.
Netanyahu’s latest UAE visit comes as both countries continue navigating regional challenges while maintaining diplomatic engagement.
