UAE Pushes UN to Secure Hormuz Strait with Coalition

The Strait of Hormuz: A Critical Energy Nexus

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, serves as a vital artery for global energy supply. Approximately 20% of the world’s crude oil and 40% of liquefied natural gas (LNG) transit through this 34-mile-long passage annually. Recent escalations have intensified as Iran has reportedly restricted maritime traffic, citing U.S. and Israeli military actions targeting its nuclear program. This disruption has led to Iran imposing a $2 million per-ship fee on commercial vessels, raising concerns about potential economic conflict. The UAE, a regional power with substantial oil reserves and trade interests, faces heightened vulnerability to Iranian attacks, balancing its economic reliance on uninterrupted shipping with its rivalry with Tehran.

Iran’s Escalating Threats to UAE Infrastructure

Iran’s attacks on UAE infrastructure, including airfields, ports, and tourist sites, have surged, with nearly 2,500 missile and drone strikes reported over recent weeks. These strikes have caused physical damage and disrupted critical economic activities, such as operations at Dubai International Airport, a major global hub. The UAE’s dependence on maritime trade for 90% of its imports and 80% of its exports has made its strategic position both essential and precarious. This context has spurred discussions about collective security measures to protect the strait, with the UAE positioning itself as a potential leader in such efforts.

“denied claims by The Wall Street Journal, labeling the report misleading”

UAE’s Military Strategy and Coalition Advocacy

The UAE has reportedly advanced plans to assume a key role in any multinational operation to secure the strait. The New York Post reported that the UAE is advocating for a UN Security Council resolution to authorize a coalition to safeguard the waterway. This initiative, which would mark the first instance of a Persian Gulf state participating in a direct military operation against Iran, is being led by Bahrain, a U.S. ally hosting the U.S. Fifth Fleet. The UAE has also urged European and Asian military powers to join a coalition, emphasizing the need for a unified response to Iran’s actions.

Reclaiming Strategic Islands and Military Preparedness

A critical aspect of the UAE’s strategy involves reclaiming strategic islands near the strait, particularly Abu Musa, currently under Iranian control. The UAE has conducted internal assessments of its military capabilities, including mine-clearing operations and the protection of shipping lanes. These measures aim to assert regional influence and counter Iranian dominance in the Gulf. However, analysts caution that deeper involvement could provoke further Iranian retaliation, risking a regional war.

UAE’s Defensive Posture and Diplomatic Balancing Act

Despite reports of the UAE’s readiness to engage in military action, the UAE Foreign Ministry has denied claims by The Wall Street Journal, labeling the report misleading. The ministry reiterated the UAE’s commitment to a defensive posture, focusing on protecting its sovereignty and self-defense against ‘unlawful attacks.’ The UAE has emphasized adherence to international law and support for maritime security but rejected suggestions of an offensive policy shift.

Regional Alliances and Strategic Priorities

This stance comes amid complex alliances, as the UAE supports U.S.–Israeli operations against Iran, such as Operation Epic Fury, while maintaining diplomatic ties with Tehran. This balancing act reflects the UAE’s strategic priorities: safeguarding economic interests while avoiding direct confrontation with Iran. However, analysts argue that its ambiguous position may hinder regional stability.

“the UAE has conducted internal assessments of its military capabilities”

Geopolitical Implications and UN Security Council Dynamics

The UAE’s potential involvement in a multinational effort to secure the Strait of Hormuz carries significant geopolitical weight. The UN Security Council, where Russia and China—both Iranian allies—hold veto power—could become a focal point of the dispute. A resolution authorizing force would require consensus, but the likelihood of a veto from Russia and China complicates such efforts. This dynamic highlights broader power struggles in the region, where the UAE’s ambitions are constrained by neighboring states’ geopolitical realities.

Economic and Security Consequences of Escalation

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz has far-reaching implications for global energy security. The UAE’s potential involvement in a military operation could further destabilize the region, with the risk of prolonged conflict affecting global supply chains. Analysts warn that any escalation could lead to a protracted crisis, with long-term economic and geopolitical consequences. The UAE’s actions reflect a broader trend of regional states seeking to control critical infrastructure, highlighting the growing role of regional actors in global security matters. However, the UAE’s reluctance to commit to a clear offensive posture underscores the complexities of balancing national interests with international obligations.