UAE calls for coalition to unblock the Strait of Hormuz

01.04.2026

The United Arab Emirates is considering military participation in an operation to unblock the Strait of Hormuz and is urging allies to form a coalition against Iran.

Oil tanker Al-Salmi damaged
The Kuwaiti-flagged oil tanker Al-Salmi (pictured) was damaged by an Iranian strike in the port of Dubai, UAE / Hromadske

The Wall Street Journal reported this, citing its sources.

Strait of Hormuz – a key flashpoint

The UAE is calling on the United States, as well as European and Asian countries, to form a military coalition to reopen the strait.

According to one official:

“The Iranian regime believes it is fighting for its survival and is ready to crash the global economy by denying other countries access to the strait.”

The UAE is considering several forms of participation in a potential military operation, including:

  • mine clearance operations;
  • logistical and broader security support for maritime navigation.

Idea of seizing islands

Sources say the UAE is also urging the United States to seize strategic islands in the strait. These include Abu Musa, which Iran has controlled for about 50 years despite UAE claims.

Position of regional allies

Gulf countries are taking a tougher stance on Iran. According to Arab officials, Saudi Arabia supports continuing the war until the Iranian regime weakens or collapses.

At the same time, the UAE may provide infrastructure for a US-led operation, including the port of Jebel Ali and other military facilities.

Context

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy routes, with around 20% of global oil consumption passing through it. It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

After the escalation in the Middle East, Iran effectively blocked the strait and is threatening attacks on vessels.

US President Donald Trump earlier urged allies to join an operation to reopen it, though some countries initially refused. Several states later agreed to support efforts to ensure safe navigation.

Previously The Ukrainian Review reported that Trump may stop the war against Iran even if he fails to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz for oil and gas transportation.