The United Arab Emirates planted an upset for US President Joe Biden ahead of his arrival in Jeddah on Thursday, July 15 on the second leg of his Mid-East trip after Israel. The plan was for nine Arab rulers to meet him for a unique summit to launch the first US-led regional air defense cooperation pact. However, the UAE, a key member, got in first with a stunning announcement. Anwar Gargash, political adviser to Crown Prince Muhammed bin Zayed said “The United Arab Emirates will not be part of an ‘axis’ against Iran even… if Tehran’s actions are not helping diplomatic efforts.” He further disclosed, “The UAE is working to send an ambassador to Tehran as it seeks to rebuild bridges with Iran. The idea of a confrontational approach to Tehran is not something Abu Dhabi supported.”The UAE’s step came after an earlier knock from Amman. Jordan’s prime minister Bisher al-Khasawneh, told the BBC, “Iran does not threaten Jordan’s national security, Jordan does not treat it as a threat, and is open to developing a healthy relationship with the Islamic Republic.”
Tehran meanwhile responded to the US initiative by establishing its first drone division in the Indian Ocean. Navy Commander, Rear Adm Sharam Irani, did not specify in a statement to Iran’s national TV, how many vessels and drones were involved, except to claim that each ship would carry 50 UAVs (see photo) on its decks. The new force, he said, would enhance Iran’s intelligence-gathering capabilities and attain air superiority in the region. READ MORE
