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Iranian authorities have increased threatening statements against the United Arab Emirates, warning that the country could face stronger attacks if the US and Israel resume operations against Iran.
A member of the Iranian parliamentary committee on national security, Ali Khezrian, declared this week on state television that the Emirates are no longer considered "neighbors", but now "hostile bases".
Even the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Command, led by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), publicly warned the Emirati leadership not to turn the country into a hub for American and Israeli forces, Al Jazeera reports .
According to Tehran, the increasingly close military, political and intelligence cooperation between the Emirates, the US and Israel is increasing insecurity in the region.
Iran has specifically mentioned the strategic port of Fujairah, near the Strait of Hormuz, claiming the area is under Iranian naval control. The port was hit earlier this month, although Tehran denied involvement.
On the other hand, the Emirates have condemned the Iranian attacks and have stated that they reserve the right to respond, including by military means.
Tensions have also escalated economically. The Emirates has canceled visas for Iranians who have lived in the country for years, closed Iranian businesses, and restricted trade and financial networks linked to Iran.
This has hit the Iranian economy, which used Emirati ports as a key point for imports from third markets, including China.
One of the main reasons why Iran is focusing on the Emirates is related to the strong American military presence on Emirati territory, especially at the Al-Dhafra air base near Abu Dhabi, where thousands of American troops and advanced radar and intelligence systems are located.
Also, relations between the Emirates and Israel have strengthened significantly following the 2020 Abraham Accords, brokered by the US.
Since then, the two countries have expanded military and intelligence cooperation, and during the current conflict, Israel has sent Iron Dome missile defense systems and military personnel to the Emirates to operate them.
Iranian media and analysts close to the government have also suggested that the Emirates may have played a role in attacks on Iranian territory, including strikes on energy facilities in the south of the country.
Although the Emirates have denied any direct involvement, relations between the two countries are considered among the most tense in recent years, while the Persian Gulf remains one of the most dangerous flashpoints of conflict between Iran, the US and their regional allies.
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