UAE quietly paid billions to stop Iran from striking Gulf
UAE (photo: GettyImages)
The United Arab Emirates will unlock billions of dollars for Iran as part of efforts to reduce tensions in the region, according to Reuters.
This information coincides with the final stage of broader negotiations between Tehran and Washington to end the war. According to diplomats, this step could include unlocking tens of billions of dollars of Iranian oil revenues frozen in foreign banks under US sanctions.
Agency sources reported that the UAE has agreed to release $10 billion, with more than $3 billion already provided.
Two other sources familiar with the terms of the agreement estimated the total amount at $20 billion, adding that this step was agreed upon in exchange for an end to Iranian attacks on the UAE.
UAE is trying to reduce tensions
Reuters could not determine whether the funds intended for transfer belong to the UAE, come from frozen Iranian accounts in the Emirates' banking system, or from other sources. A UAE official explained that the country is trying to reduce tensions and promote peace.
"The UAE's foreign policy is guided by promoting de-escalation and reducing tensions across the region, while advancing lasting peace and stability. The UAE supports efforts, including those undertaken by the United States, to protect the peoples of the region from the repercussions of conflict," he said.
One source said the move aims to help resolve the conflict between the US and Iran without either side crossing a red line.
Specifically, Iran can claim it has secured compensation for war damage, Washington can insist it paid nothing, and Abu Dhabi gains its own security while presenting the step as an investment in restoring regional trust.
Ending attacks in exchange for money
Another source reported that in exchange for the payments, Iran will halt missile and drone attacks on the UAE. Restoration of bilateral ties will also be pursued, including intelligence sharing and economic cooperation.
The source added that Iran has approached at least two other Arab countries with a proposal to conclude a similar agreement.
The unfreezing of assets is directly linked to ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a key issue in negotiations to end the conflict.
On June 11, US President Donald Trump stated that a deal with Iran could be reached in the very near future. According to him, an agreement could be signed as early as this weekend — June 13–14.
Meanwhile, today, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the text of a potential peace agreement has already been finalized.
