IDF Chief Zamir Secretly Visited UAE During Operation Roaring Lion

IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir conducted a secret visit to the United Arab Emirates during Operation Roaring Lion, accompanied by a US delegation. The primary objective was to strengthen strategic cooperation and coordinate defense strategies against Iran, covering both defensive and offensive operational scenarios. This high-level engagement underscores the deepening military alliance between Israel and the UAE, facilitated by the Abraham Accords. Security sources described these interactions as historic breakthroughs that will shape bilateral relations for years. The visit aligns with reports of Israel transferring Iron Dome batteries and laser systems to the UAE for protection against Iranian threats. Zamir was not the only senior Israeli official to travel to Abu Dhabi during this period; Mossad Director David Barnea and Shin Bet Director David Zini also held secret meetings with counterparts. Additionally, despite initial denials from the UAE Foreign Ministry, it was confirmed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan at the onset of the operation, highlighting intense diplomatic and security coordination amidst the ongoing conflict.