U.A.E. Preparing to Help Open Strait of Hormuz By Force

The WSJ What's News episode focuses primarily on developments in the ongoing Iran war, including the UAE's reported preparations to join combat efforts and US military reinforcements, while also covering Trump's Supreme Court challenge on birthright citizenship, a key minerals acquisition in Africa, and select business updates.

UAE Prepares for Combat Role in Strait of Hormuz

After weeks of Iranian attacks on UAE targets like luxury hotels, the airport, and iconic buildings—aimed at panicking the population and pressuring an end to the war—the UAE is shifting from defense to potential offense. Officials view Iran not just targeting US interests but deliberately undermining their economy, and they reject Tehran's push for a post-war administrative role over the Strait of Hormuz, which could include tolls or access controls. The UAE economy relies heavily on energy, shipping, and food imports through the strait.

The UAE is lobbying for a Bahrain-introduced UN Security Council resolution authorizing force to reopen the strait, providing international legitimacy for coalition action. With a small but capable navy, the UAE could sweep mines, offer bases, and support combatants; it's also aiding Trump's coalition-building. This marks the first direct Gulf country combat involvement, a step that could persist beyond Trump's tenure and strain relations with Iran.