Trump threatens ‘a big hit’ if Tehran does not make deal soon

United States President Donald Trump announced that a planned attack on Iran has been postponed at the request of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Trump stated that "serious negotiations are now taking place." Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian commented that "dialogue does not mean surrender" and that Tehran entered negotiations with "dignity, authority, and the preservation of the nation’s rights." Al Jazeera's correspondent in Tehran reported that Iranian leaders are "projecting defiance" and rejecting "public pressure" from the US.

China and Russia maintain a close relationship, described as a "friendship with no limits," despite a significant power imbalance where China dictates terms. Russia is heavily reliant on China for trade, technology, and components for its military, especially after Western sanctions. While Russia, a proud nation, seeks to maintain an equal footing, it has few alternatives to Beijing for economic survival. China, in turn, exercises self-restraint, recognizing the risks of alienating Russia. Russia's resources, particularly energy, and its military technology also benefit China, especially as it considers its own geopolitical strategies. The relationship endures because both sides deem it too important to fail.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting China to meet with President Xi Jinping, reaffirming strong bilateral ties. The visit, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of a friendship treaty, will focus on economic cooperation and international issues. This meeting follows U.S. President Donald Trump's recent trip to Beijing, which aimed to stabilize U.S.-China relations. China seeks to maintain stable ties with the U.S. while preserving its strategic partnership with Russia, with analysts noting these are not mutually exclusive goals for Beijing. Russia's economic ties with China have strengthened, particularly in energy, with China being Russia's primary trade partner. Putin stated that Russia-China relations are at an "unprecedented level" and play a crucial global role.

President Donald Trump has renewed threats of new US attacks on Iran if Tehran does not agree to significant concessions for a deal to end the Middle East war. Trump stated he was close to ordering strikes but pulled back, citing a peace proposal from Iran via Pakistan and reluctance from allies. He indicated a limited timeframe, possibly by the weekend or early next week, for a deal before a "big hit" could occur. Iran has remained defiant, calling US demands "excessive" and reiterating its control over the Strait of Hormuz, while also proposing an end to hostilities and withdrawal of US forces. Analysts suggest the conflict is deadlocked, with both sides wanting to avoid war but unwilling to make necessary concessions.

President Trump announced he has paused a planned attack on Iran, scheduled for Tuesday, following a request from Gulf leaders. This decision comes after Iran submitted a new 14-point peace proposal to Washington via Pakistan. Trump stated there is now a "very good chance" of reaching an agreement to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, though other sticking points are expected to remain. Iran's demands for peace reportedly include the lifting of sanctions. This development occurs amidst recent drone attacks on Saudi Arabia and the UAE, raising concerns about renewed military escalation in the Gulf as peace negotiations continue. Trump has instructed the US military to be prepared for a large-scale assault if an acceptable deal is not reached.

US President Donald Trump delayed a scheduled attack on Iran following requests from leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, stating that "serious negotiations are now taking place." Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed Iran's participation in talks but emphasized that dialogue does not equate to surrender, asserting negotiations are conducted with dignity and national rights preserved. Meanwhile, Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue, with the death toll exceeding 3,000. In Iran, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported striking groups linked to the US and Israel in Kurdistan province, accusing them of attempting to smuggle weapons. The IRGC also indicated potential permit requirements for fiber-optic cables passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials warned against further US aggression, stating any renewed attacks would face a significantly stronger response.

Despite promises to "un-unite" Russia and China, US President Trump's policies have inadvertently strengthened their alliance, mirroring the counterproductive approaches of his predecessors. The ongoing Iran war has significantly boosted Russo-Chinese ties, with China becoming reliant on Russian oil and gas due to the Strait of Hormuz closure, benefiting Moscow financially. Bilateral trade has increased, and energy cooperation is expanding, including potential advancements in gas pipeline projects. Both nations are also united by a shared perception of the US-led West as a threat. Historically, the US has previously exploited Sino-Soviet differences, but recent US actions, including NATO expansion and rhetoric on Taiwan, have pushed Beijing and Moscow closer. Trump's administration has maintained an ambivalent stance on the Ukraine conflict and engaged in trade disputes with China, while the Iran war has further alarmed China about US actions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing. This meeting occurs shortly after Xi Jinping welcomed Donald Trump to the same city. The article states Xi Jinping is seeking to strengthen ties with Putin during this visit. The core purpose of the visit, as indicated by the title, is for Xi Jinping to enhance the relationship between China and Russia. The article provides no further details on the specific outcomes or discussions of these meetings.

US President Donald Trump announced he has halted a planned US military attack on Iran, originally scheduled for Tuesday. He stated this decision was made at the request of leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, who indicated that serious negotiations are underway and a deal acceptable to the US, ensuring Iran will not possess nuclear weapons, is anticipated. Trump cautioned that the US military remains prepared for a large-scale assault if negotiations fail. This development follows a period of stalled talks and intermittent exchanges of fire between Iran and US/Israeli forces, despite a ceasefire agreement in April aimed at facilitating discussions. Iran has not yet publicly responded to Trump's statement.

Regional officials report Iran has presented a new proposal aimed at ending the Middle East war, though no immediate breakthrough is evident in stalled peace talks. A ceasefire has paused most violence following six weeks of US-Israeli airstrikes and Iranian retaliation. Pakistan, acting as a mediator, has shared the proposal with the US, but a Pakistani source expressed pessimism about agreement due to shifting demands. Other officials suggest Iran has offered concessions, including suspending its nuclear program and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Despite these developments, rhetoric remains defiant, with Iran threatening internet cable permits and the US reportedly considering military action. Both sides face pressure to end the conflict amid economic crises and domestic concerns.

On day 80 of the conflict, US President Donald Trump warned Iran that "the clock is ticking" to reach a deal, suggesting potential air strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure. Iran's Ministry of Defence spokesperson stated the military is "fully prepared" to confront any new aggression from the US and Israel. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting three drones, following a drone strike on the UAE's Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant. Meanwhile, Israel has continued its bombardment of Lebanon despite a ceasefire extension. A member of Iran's Expediency Council warned the US to lift its port blockade, reiterating Iran's readiness for further confrontation. Russia's envoy suggested Iran appoint a special envoy to Moscow, while a French political figure condemned European complicity in the strikes.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to Beijing, immediately following US President Donald Trump's summit with President Xi Jinping, signifies a shift in global diplomacy. Analysts previously viewed China as balancing between Russia and the US, but this interpretation is now considered outdated. Beijing is actively positioning itself as a central player, with other global powers needing to align with its influence. Putin's visit is driven by Russia's need to understand the outcomes of China-US discussions, as any changes in their relationship, particularly concerning trade, technology, and geopolitical issues like Taiwan and Ukraine, directly impact Russia's strategic position.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China on Tuesday for a summit with President Xi Jinping, a visit that highlights Beijing's central role in global affairs. According to Chinese political scientist Zheng Yongnian, US President Donald Trump may recognize that the US must engage with a stronger China rather than attempt to defeat it. This meeting, along with an anticipated visit from Trump, marks the first time China has hosted leaders from the White House and the Kremlin in the same month outside a multilateral setting, underscoring Beijing's efforts to manage relations with both powers and position itself as a pivotal global player. The leaders are expected to discuss bilateral cooperation and international issues, with the war in Ukraine potentially on the agenda. Both China and Russia aim to deepen their relationship and inject stability into the world.

China is increasing its economic ties with Russia by hosting the 10th bilateral trade expo. This event precedes Russian President Vladimir Putin's anticipated visit to Beijing this week. This follows closely on the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to China last week. These consecutive visits by two prominent global leaders underscore a rise in diplomatic activity. China aims to stabilize its relationship with Washington while simultaneously strengthening its strategic partnership with Moscow. The expo signifies China's effort to deepen coordination with Russia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to host Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing this week, following Donald Trump's recent visit. Xi and Putin exchanged congratulatory letters, with Xi highlighting the deepening strategic partnership between their countries, now in its 30th year. This visit occurs amidst Western concerns over China's support for Russia following the Ukraine invasion, with China having purchased significant amounts of Russian fossil fuels. Analysts suggest Beijing views these back-to-back visits as a sign of its growing diplomatic importance. The article notes that while Trump's talks with Xi focused on trade and the Middle East, the Xi-Putin meeting may implicitly address energy security for China in the context of potential future conflicts, such as over Taiwan.

An analyst suggests Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announcement of a "secret visit" with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has strained the U.S.-brokered alliance designed to counter Iran. The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any undisclosed arrangements, stating their relations with Israel are public under the Abraham Accords. This friction arises as tensions with Iran escalate, with the UAE having recently intercepted drones. Analyst Natan Sachs called Netanyahu's announcement a "diplomatic blunder" that embarrassed the UAE and potentially damaged trust, suggesting it may have been motivated by domestic politics. The Abraham Accords, established in 2020, normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations, fostering security cooperation against Iran.

U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated threats against Iran, warning that time is running out for the country to concede to demands, including dismantling its nuclear program and missile stocks. Trump issued a stark warning on his platform, stating that "there won’t be anything left of them" if they do not act quickly. This rhetoric follows stalled negotiations and previous threats from Trump, including an AI-generated image suggesting impending military action. Iran has denounced Trump's demands as excessive and stated that the U.S. has offered no tangible concessions. Iranian officials have warned against further threats, suggesting that any folly will result in severe blows. The increasingly hostile remarks from both sides raise concerns about the stability of the current ceasefire.

A drone strike targeted the United Arab Emirates' Barakah nuclear power plant on Sunday, igniting an electrical generator on its perimeter. Authorities reported no radiological release or injuries. While no group claimed responsibility, suspicion immediately fell on Iran, which had been issuing threats against the UAE due to its hosting of Israeli missile defenses and troops. This incident further strains the fragile ceasefire in the Iran war, occurring as Iran maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz and US-led efforts to solidify the ceasefire have stalled. The Barakah plant, the first and only nuclear facility on the Arabian Peninsula, began operations in 2020 and supplies a significant portion of the UAE's energy.

A drone strike caused a fire outside the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, authorities confirmed. The blaze, which occurred on an external electrical generator outside the plant's perimeter, resulted in no injuries and no impact on radiological safety levels, according to the Abu Dhabi media office. The UAE’s nuclear regulator stated that plant safety was not affected and all units are operating normally. No group has claimed responsibility for the drone strike, and the UAE statement did not assign blame. This incident marks the first time the Barakah plant has been targeted during the ongoing Iran war, which has seen increased tensions and attacks around the Strait of Hormuz.

The United Arab Emirates has blamed Iran or its proxies for a drone strike that caused a fire near the Barakah nuclear power plant. The UAE described the incident as a "dangerous escalation," occurring during a tense ceasefire in the Iran war with stalled peace talks. The drone targeted an electrical generator outside the plant's perimeter, causing no injuries or radiation alerts. The UAE's foreign minister informed the International Atomic Energy Agency and stated the country reserves the right to respond. The UAE's defense ministry reported three drones entered from the western border, and investigations are ongoing to determine the source.

The United Arab Emirates reported a drone strike on Sunday that ignited a fire near the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in Abu Dhabi. The UAE's defense ministry stated that three drones entered from the west, with two being intercepted and one striking an electrical generator outside the plant's inner perimeter. Authorities are investigating the source of the strike, which the UAE's foreign ministry condemned as an "unacceptable act of aggression" and a "dangerous escalation" violating international law. No injuries were reported, and radiological safety levels remained unaffected. The UAE has previously accused Iran of similar attacks on its infrastructure.

On day 78 of the war, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the US, under President Trump, has signaled openness to new negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program, though a deadlock persists over enriched nuclear material. Trump also suggested a potential willingness to have Iran pause its civilian nuclear program for two decades if Tehran shows commitment to a broader agreement. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Israel agreed to extend a fragile ceasefire by 45 days, despite ongoing Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon that resulted in at least 12 deaths on Friday. Iran's capital has detailed significant damage and casualties from US-Israeli attacks, and Iran is permitting more ships through the Strait of Hormuz following the acceptance of new legal protocols by several countries.

The relationship between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, typically discreet, was recently highlighted amidst regional tensions from the Iran war. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee revealed Israel sent Iron Dome systems and personnel to the UAE for protection against Iranian attacks. Subsequently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a quiet visit to the UAE during the conflict, which the UAE officially denied, stating their relations are public under the Abraham Accords. While Netanyahu and the Trump administration promote these alliances, Gulf states prefer to downplay them due to the controversial nature of public ties with Israel in the region. The UAE's denial of Netanyahu's visit aimed to avoid public scrutiny of their wartime cooperation, which includes military and economic benefits for both nations.

The recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing was framed by both nations as a significant and historic occasion. The choice of venue, the secluded Zhongnanhai leadership compound rather than the usual Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, underscored this emphasis. Xi Jinping noted that few foreign leaders had been granted such access to Zhongnanhai, highlighting the unique nature of the summit. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the outcome, with Xi describing the summit as closely watched by the world and Trump calling it a great success with fantastic deals made. The careful choreography of the event, including walks in the compound's gardens, aimed to convey the importance of the interactions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Beijing next week for a two-day trip to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The Kremlin announced the visit, scheduled for May 19-20, comes shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump's state visit to China. Putin's trip is timed to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the 2001 Sino-Russian Treaty of Friendship. The leaders are expected to discuss bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and key international and regional issues. This meeting highlights the deepening relationship between China and Russia, particularly since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 led to Moscow's increased reliance on Beijing due to Western sanctions. Putin is also scheduled to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in China in November.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Beijing from May 19 to 20 for a state visit at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. This trip aims to reinforce the "comprehensive strategic partnership" between China and Russia. During his visit, Putin is expected to discuss key international and regional issues with Xi and sign a joint declaration. He will also hold separate talks with Premier Li Qiang regarding economic and trade cooperation. The announcement of Putin's visit follows a recent tentative reset in US-China relations.

During President Trump's visit to Beijing, he stated that the US and China share similar views on resolving the situation with Iran, emphasizing a desire for Iran to cease nuclear weapon development and ensure open shipping lanes. While Trump claimed a shared sentiment, no specific breakthroughs were announced. The US has reportedly sought China's leverage as Iran's largest oil buyer to influence its actions, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz. China, which relies heavily on the waterway for its oil imports, has called for a ceasefire and the opening of the strait, though some in Beijing view the crisis as not solely China's responsibility. The US has also expressed differing views on whether they are seeking China's direct assistance.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that a lack of trust is the primary impediment to negotiations aimed at ending the war with the U.S. Speaking in New Delhi, Araghchi expressed doubt about American intentions due to contradictory messages and indicated Tehran would welcome diplomatic assistance, particularly from China. He emphasized that progress in negotiations hinges on Washington's readiness for a "fair and balanced deal." U.S. President Donald Trump had previously dismissed Iran's latest proposal. The ongoing conflict continues to threaten regional stability and prolong a global energy crisis, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a critical point of contention. Araghchi also identified Iran's enriched uranium stockpile as a difficult subject in the talks.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated at a BRICS meeting in New Delhi that Tehran doubts the seriousness of the US regarding potential negotiations to end regional conflict. He confirmed that Iran has received messages from the Trump administration indicating openness to new talks, but distrust persists. Araghchi also indicated that the issue of Iran's enriched material and nuclear program will likely be postponed until later stages of any future discussions. He mentioned that Iran is open to Russia's offer to store its enriched uranium and will consult with Moscow on this matter at an appropriate time. Araghchi also expressed openness to support from other countries, including China, to resolve the conflict.

During his state visit to China, US President Donald Trump adopted an unusually restrained social media approach. Since arriving in Beijing on Wednesday evening, Trump has posted only ten updates, primarily featuring videos of his arrival and greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping. His posts included praise for Xi as "one of the World's Great Leaders" and a comment suggesting the US should possess a ballroom similar to China's, seemingly inspired by a state banquet. This contrasts with Trump's typically combative and prolific online presence.

During President Trump's visit to Beijing on May 15, 2026, the United States sought China's cooperation in pressuring Iran to end the ongoing 77-day war. The conflict began on February 28 with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory attacks by Iran across the region. While the US framed the war as necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, China reiterated its opposition, citing severe losses and advocating for dialogue and a comprehensive ceasefire. Despite US efforts, President Xi Jinping did not appear to yield to US pressure, and no agreement was reached on ending the war. China expressed support for ongoing ceasefire mediation efforts, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution in the interest of all parties involved.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled for a one-day visit to Beijing next week, specifically on May 20th. This visit follows closely on the heels of a significant summit between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump. Sources indicate this trip is part of routine interactions between Russia and China, with no major public displays expected. The timing of hosting leaders from both global powers in the same month, outside of a multilateral event, highlights Beijing's strategy to navigate relationships with both nations and its role in a changing global landscape.

BRICS foreign ministers concluded their meeting in New Delhi without issuing a joint statement due to divisions over the Iran war. Iran's Foreign Minister urged member states to condemn alleged violations of international law by the United States and Israel. However, differing views among members, particularly concerning Iran's actions and its relations with Gulf neighbors like the UAE, prevented consensus. The UAE representative rejected Iran's claims, accusing them of justifying attacks. Despite the lack of a joint statement on the conflict, BRICS members did agree on calls for global governance reforms and greater representation for Global South countries.

On day 77 of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the Strait of Hormuz in Beijing, agreeing it must remain open for global energy supplies. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister urged BRICS nations in New Delhi to condemn the US-Israel actions as a violation of international law, accusing the UAE of direct involvement in the conflict. Iran also signaled a new strategy for the Strait of Hormuz, allowing ships, including some linked to Chinese companies, to transit if they cooperate with Iranian naval forces. Concurrently, Lebanese and Israeli negotiators are holding a third round of talks in Washington, DC, to end hostilities.

Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, is set to advocate for Tehran's stance against the US at the Brics foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi. India, holding the Brics chairmanship, is hosting the gathering of the expanded bloc, which now includes Iran and the UAE. The meeting, taking place on Thursday, will also see Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in attendance. Discussions are expected to focus on critical issues such as Gulf shipping routes and the Strait of Hormuz. The presence of Iran, a nation in conflict with the US and Israel, presents a diplomatic challenge for India as it navigates its relationships within the bloc.

During a meeting on Thursday, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the Strait of Hormuz, agreeing that the waterway "must remain open to support the free flow of energy." The White House stated that Xi also conveyed China's opposition to the militarization of the strait or any tolls for its use. This discussion comes as negotiations to end the conflict and reopen the strait, which Iran has largely closed since late February, are stalled. Despite disruptions to global energy supplies, some vessels, including a Chinese tanker, have recently transited the strait under special agreements. The US has been enforcing a blockade on ships traveling to or from Iranian ports through the Strait of Hormuz.

On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump began his visit to China with a formal welcome ceremony that included cheering children and a troop parade. Following the reception, President Trump held a nearly two-hour meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The article focuses on the initial events of Trump's first day in China, highlighting the ceremonial aspects of his arrival and the significant bilateral discussion with the Chinese leader. This meeting marks a key engagement during Trump's state visit, aimed at addressing various aspects of the U.S.-China relationship.

On day 76 of the war, US Vice President JD Vance stated progress is being made in talks with Iran, despite President Trump deeming Tehran's proposal unacceptable. These negotiations aim to prevent a ceasefire collapse. Iran's military, according to Brigadier-General Mohammad Akrami Nia, remains on high alert, signaling readiness to respond to escalation. Meanwhile, Israel claims Prime Minister Netanyahu made a secret visit to the UAE during the war, a trip the UAE denies. Iran's Foreign Minister warned countries colluding with Israel would be held accountable. Separately, Iran celebrated its national football team's send-off for the 2026 World Cup amidst the ongoing conflict.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, stated that ships entering the Strait of Hormuz must cooperate with the Iranian navy, following reports of a vessel being seized near the UAE port of Fujairah and taken towards Iranian waters. The UK Maritime Trading Organisation confirmed the seizure by "unauthorised personnel." Araghchi, speaking at a BRICS meeting, described Iran as "invincible" and claimed America's blockade, not Iran, has created obstacles. He urged BRICS nations to condemn alleged US and Israeli violations of international law. The incident occurs amidst heightened regional tensions and Iran's efforts to counter US sanctions.

An Indian-flagged vessel, the Hui Chuan, has reportedly been hijacked by Iran off the coast of Oman. This incident follows an attack on the same vessel on Wednesday, which Indian officials state was a suspected explosion from a drone or missile. The ship, carrying livestock, was en route from Berbera Port in Somalia to Sharjah in the UAE when the fire broke out, forcing the crew to abandon ship before it sank. Omani authorities rescued the 14 Indian crew members and brought them to Diba Port. India's Ministry of External Affairs has condemned the attack as "unacceptable."

A ship was seized off the coast of the United Arab Emirates near the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday morning, according to the British military. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the vessel was boarded by unauthorized personnel approximately 38 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah. The ship, identified by the BBC as the Honduras-flagged Hui Chuan, was observed heading towards Iranian territorial waters after the incident. Citing a risk-management company, the BBC also reported that the ship's operators claimed it was functioning as a "floating armory" for vessels to defend against pirates. This seizure follows at least two other ship seizures in the Strait of Hormuz since February, including two by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in April.

A ship anchored off the east coast of the United Arab Emirates has been seized by unauthorized personnel and is reportedly heading towards Iranian territorial waters. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center confirmed the incident, which occurred approximately 38 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah. The seizure took place amid heightened regional tensions, including ongoing discussions between the U.S. and China regarding Iran, and a recent denial by the UAE of a reported secret visit by Israel's Prime Minister. The UKMTO is investigating the incident, and no group has yet claimed responsibility. The specific vessel involved has not been identified.

President Donald Trump is traveling to Beijing for a high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, aiming to stabilize relations between the two largest economies. The visit, scheduled for Wednesday evening and lasting two days, marks Trump's first trip to China since 2017 and the first state visit between the leaders since Trump's return to the White House. Despite Trump's optimistic outlook and description of Xi as a "friend," significant disagreements persist regarding trade, Taiwan, and global security issues. The summit's purpose is to address these divisions and foster greater stability in the bilateral relationship.

US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, confirmed that Israel has deployed Iron Dome anti-missile batteries and operating personnel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This deployment, revealed on May 12, 2026, is intended to help the UAE defend against Iranian attacks. Huckabee praised the UAE for its strong relationship with Israel, highlighting it as an example of the benefits of the Abraham Accords. This marks the first known instance of the US-funded Iron Dome system being used outside of Israel. The move comes amid ongoing Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting the UAE and other Gulf nations since late February, following attacks by the US and Israel on Iran. Huckabee also urged Gulf states to align themselves in the conflict with Iran.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced that Israel has deployed Iron Dome anti-missile batteries and operating personnel to the United Arab Emirates. This deployment is intended to defend the UAE during the ongoing Iran war. Huckabee made these remarks at an event in Tel Aviv, highlighting the strengthening defense ties between Israel and the UAE, both of whom are concerned about Iran. The UAE and Israel established diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the Abraham Accords. The deployment underscores regional security concerns amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.