The wealthy state is lobbying for the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution that would sanction such actions.
The UAE is ready to join the military operation to open the Strait of Hormuz, becoming the first country in the Persian Gulf to openly support a forceful method of resolution. This was reported by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) citing sources.
According to the publication's sources, the Emirates are lobbying for the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution that would sanction such actions. UAE diplomats have urged the US and military powers in Europe and Asia to form a coalition to unblock the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran effectively closed in early March.
As noted by the sources, the UAE also proposed to the US to occupy islands in the strategically important strait, including Abu Musa Island, which is controlled by Iran and claimed by the Emirates.
The UAE Armed Forces (about 65,000 personnel) is a high-tech, well-equipped army considered one of the most effective in the Middle East. It consists mainly of ground forces (Leclerc tanks), modern air forces (F-16, Mirage 2000), and naval forces, as well as an elite presidential guard, focusing on sovereignty protection and participation in regional operations.
The ground forces are equipped with more than 380 Leclerc tanks, BMP-3s, and G-6 self-propelled howitzers, making them leaders in armored vehicles. They include armored, mechanized, and infantry brigades.
The air force includes about 4,000 personnel and more than 300 aircraft, including F-16 Fighting Falcon and Mirage 2000 fighters, attack helicopters, and AWACS aircraft.
The navy includes frigates, Baynunah-class and Abu Dhabi-class corvettes, as well as marine corps units. The presidential guard is an elite unit that includes special forces, marines, and mechanized units, which have actively participated in operations in Afghanistan and Yemen.
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