Reports emerge of UAE military operations against Iran in April

The Wall Street Journal reported on May 11, 2026, that the United Arab Emirates conducted military operations against Iran in April. According to unnamed sources, UAE forces targeted oil facilities on Lavan Island. Tehran responded to these strikes with counterattacks directed at both Qatar and the UAE. While the French news agency AFP could not independently verify the UAE's involvement, it noted that Iran launched drones and missiles in retaliation for attacks dating back to February 28. Between the start of the conflict and May 8, the UAE Ministry of Defense reported that the country was targeted by 551 ballistic missiles, 29 cruise missiles, and 2,263 drones. The Iranian attacks primarily targeted energy infrastructure and U.S. bases, resulting in the deaths of 10 civilians. Despite high interception rates, these incidents have affected the perceived stability of the region, particularly Dubai.