UAE strikes Iran desalination plant, first Gulf state to join US-Israel offensive - Reports

The United Arab Emirates has reportedly carried out its first direct strike on Iran, targeting a desalination facility in what is being described as a retaliatory action following recent regional attacks. The development marks the first time a Gulf nation has joined military operations alongside the United States and Israel in the ongoing confrontation with Tehran.

Reports said the targeted site was a desalination plant used to remove salt and minerals from seawater to produce drinking water. The strike is believed to be the UAE’s first military response after Iranian missile and drone attacks were directed at several Gulf countries in the aftermath of US-Israeli strikes launched on February 28.

The reported operation signals a major escalation in the regional conflict, potentially widening the scope of hostilities beyond Israel and Iran. By entering the offensive phase, the UAE would become the first Gulf state to directly participate in strikes against Iranian targets, raising concerns about a broader regional confrontation.

Tensions had already intensified in recent days after Iranian drone activity affected parts of the UAE. Authorities in Fujairah last week extinguished a fire caused by debris following the interception of a drone by air defence systems near the emirate’s oil industry zone, highlighting the growing security risks across the Gulf.