Abu Dhabi, April 1, 2026 — The United Arab Emirates is preparing to support the United States and its allies in reopening the Strait of Hormuz through military means if necessary, marking a significant escalation in Gulf Arab involvement in the ongoing regional conflict with Iran.
According to a Wall Street Journal report citing Arab officials, the UAE is actively lobbying for a United Nations Security Council resolution to authorize the operation and urging the US, along with European and Asian military powers, to form a coalition aimed at breaking Iran’s effective blockade of the critical waterway.
This development follows earlier reports from the Financial Times, which indicated that the UAE has informed the US and Western allies of its readiness to participate in a multinational maritime task force. Abu Dhabi is also promoting the creation of a “Hormuz Security Force” involving dozens of countries to defend the strait against Iranian attacks and escort commercial shipping.
A Strategic Shift for the UAE
If the UAE deploys its navy in combat operations, it would become the first Persian Gulf Arab state to take a direct combat role in the current US-Israel-Iran conflict. Traditionally cautious and focused on economic diversification, Abu Dhabi has hardened its stance after sustaining Iranian missile and drone attacks.
A senior Emirati official had previously signaled openness to a US-led effort to protect shipping in the strait, especially after Iran dramatically restricted maritime traffic. The shift reflects growing frustration among Gulf states over Iranian actions that have disrupted regional stability and global energy supplies.
The Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz serves as the world’s most vital oil chokepoint, with roughly one-fifth to one-third of global seaborne oil trade and significant liquefied natural gas volumes passing through its narrow waters under normal conditions. Since the escalation of hostilities in late February and early March 2026, Iran has used naval harassment, attacks on tankers, and explicit threats to severely curtail commercial shipping.
Reports indicate tanker traffic has plummeted, with some periods seeing near-total disruption. This has driven sharp increases in global oil prices, insurance premiums, and shipping costs, while forcing many vessels to reroute around Africa at considerable expense. Iran has also reportedly conducted strikes on multiple ships, further deterring international maritime traffic.
Reopening the strait by force would likely require coordinated naval escorts, mine-clearing operations (if needed), air support, and direct confrontation with Iranian naval, coastal missile, and Revolutionary Guard forces. The UAE possesses a modern, capable navy suited for operations in its proximate waters, though any major effort would depend heavily on US leadership and resources.
Diplomatic and Military Context
The UAE’s push aligns with broader US efforts under President Trump to assemble an international coalition for maritime security in the Gulf. US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have signaled determination to restore freedom of navigation “one way or another.”
While a UN Security Council resolution authorizing force faces steep odds—given likely opposition from Russia and China—the diplomatic campaign underscores Abu Dhabi’s desire for broad international legitimacy and burden-sharing.
The situation remains highly fluid and carries substantial risk of further escalation. Any direct military operation against Iranian assets in or near the strait could widen the conflict significantly. As of early April 2026, no formal coalition has been publicly launched, and details of potential contributions from the UAE or other nations remain under discussion.
Analysts note that sustained disruption to the Strait of Hormuz threatens not only energy markets but also global supply chains at a time of heightened geopolitical tension. The UAE’s more assertive posture may encourage other Gulf states to reconsider their positions, though caution persists due to the proximity to Iranian threats.
This story continues to develop rapidly. Observers are monitoring official statements from Abu Dhabi, Washington, and Tehran, alongside real-time shipping data and oil market movements for further clarity on potential military or diplomatic breakthroughs.
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