On January 17, 2022, the Houthis executed a significant attack against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), launching ballistic missiles and drones that targeted oil installations and Abu Dhabi International Airport. Tragically, this assault resulted in the loss of three lives. Just two months later, leaked documents revealed that Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems quickly responded to an urgent request from the UAE, proposing the rapid provision of advanced drones.
### Strengthening Ties Between Israel and the UAE
The leaked details from Israel’s top arms manufacturer revealed ongoing discussions regarding the sale of an extensive range of weapons systems to the UAE. This highlights the strengthening military ties between Israel and the UAE that have developed following the signing of the Abraham Accords. In recent months, these alliances have intensified significantly due to mutual concerns over Iran, illustrated by the deployment of Iron Dome batteries on Emirati soil, among other military collaborations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu even made a covert visit to the UAE during a particularly intense phase of conflict.
The documents, which appeared to come from a hack of a senior Elbit executive’s Gmail account, were analyzed by Haaretz, revealing insights into the extensive dealings between Israel and other Arab nations. Reports indicated that Israeli defense exports surged to a record $19 billion in 2025, with $3 billion of that in sales to countries involved in the Abraham Accords. Since 2021, Israel’s military sales to these nations, especially Morocco and the UAE, have reached around $9 billion.
### The Elbit Proposal and Drone Technology
The correspondence within the leaked documents points to an intriguing demand from the UAE for six Hermes 900 drones. These drones are Elbit’s most advanced offering and were initially operational with the Israeli military over a decade ago. They possess a remarkable intelligence-gathering capacity, capable of carrying payloads up to 350 kilograms. The UAE’s request was classified as of high urgency and would reportedly cost around $180 million. However, discussions hinted at the potential expansion of this initial deal to encompass up to 45 drones, significantly increasing the stakes with a valuation of roughly $1.3 billion.
Additionally, further mentions in the leaked exchanges included plans for four intelligence aircraft and other modeling technologies, emphasizing the UAE’s quest to bolster its defense capabilities through Israeli technology. One proposed system featured an advanced electro-optical capability allowing for extensive real-time imagery collection from drone flights.
### Regional Security Implications
The leaked documents are illustrative of the collaborative military relationship between Israel and the UAE, particularly given the rise of tensions in the region. Since the beginning of 2022, the two nations have faced shared threats and have taken steps to secure their borders collaboratively. Reports suggest that Israeli military assistance, including Iron Dome units and laser-based defense systems, has been delivered to the UAE in response to a growing number of missile threats perceived to be originating from Iran.
A pivotal point in these developments is a documented meeting discussing possible arms sales to numerous countries, including Ethiopia, Rwanda, and several Gulf states. These communications are often sent from private accounts, indicating a lapse in information security, vital for such sensitive negotiations.
### Supporting Humanitarian Efforts
Despite military undertones, the security alliance between Israel and the UAE has also fostered diplomatic channels for humanitarian cooperation. A senior U.S. official highlighted the Emiratis’ unique rapport with Israel, which enables them to execute humanitarian projects in Gaza that have been challenging for other nations or organizations. Such initiatives are crucial amidst regional conflicts, illustrating how military collaboration can sometimes lead to progress on humanitarian fronts.
In summary, the intertwining of military and humanitarian efforts between Israel and the UAE presents a complex narrative that showcases evolving strategic alliances. As tensions mount in the region, economic and defense partnerships will likely continue to shape Middle Eastern geopolitics, providing both nations with robust defensive capabilities while simultaneously addressing humanitarian needs.