UAE Rejects Claims of Secret Netanyahu Visit to Abu Dhabi

The UAE Foreign Ministry has poured cold water on sensational reports alleging Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu’s undercover journey to the country. Posting on X Wednesday, officials declared such claims ‘incorrect and without foundation,’ stressing that all high-level interactions are announced officially.

Framing bilateral relations within the Abraham Accords, the ministry distanced itself from notions of secret deals. It implored media to verify facts and refrain from spreading unconfirmed info that stokes political agendas.

Earlier buzz stemmed from Netanyahu’s office, which alluded to a stealth visit amid Iran hostilities, meeting President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and terming it a game-changer for ties. Details were sparse, leaving room for conjecture.

This fits a pattern of intensified contacts. Recent media noted Mossad Director David Barnea’s multiple UAE trips for Iran-related collaboration, alongside Shin Bet chief David Gini’s visit, pointing to robust security synergies.

Since US-mediated normalization in 2020, Israel-UAE bonds have flourished in trade, tech, and defense. A Netanyahu visit would be groundbreaking—his first there, and only the second Israeli PM in a Gulf state.

By debunking the story, UAE reinforces protocol in its diplomacy. In a volatile region, such clarity prevents missteps. Stakeholders await potential confirmations, but the message is clear: official channels rule.