©연합뉴스

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he conducted a clandestine diplomatic mission to the United Arab Emirates during the height of the conflict with Iran, characterizing the trip as a "historic breakthrough." However, the United Arab Emirates has issued a formal denial, refuting the Prime Minister's assertion that any such secret meeting took place with the Emirati president.

The Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem stated that Netanyahu traveled to the United Arab Emirates to meet with the country’s leadership while regional tensions with Iran were at their peak. According to Israeli officials, the clandestine trip was intended to solidify security cooperation and advance strategic interests shared by both nations in the face of Iranian aggression. Netanyahu hailed the encounter as a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy, suggesting that the dialogue led to significant advancements in the bilateral relationship between the two states.

The United Arab Emirates quickly moved to dismiss the Israeli claims. In a statement released through official channels, Emirati authorities denied that Netanyahu had visited the country or participated in any secret high-level meetings during the period in question. This public contradiction highlights a notable rift in the narratives provided by the two governments, casting uncertainty over the current state of their diplomatic engagement and the transparency of regional security arrangements.

International observers note that the claim comes at a critical juncture, as Israel continues to navigate the complexities of its military and political stance against Tehran. While Israel has consistently sought to expand the framework of the Abraham Accords and strengthen ties with Gulf neighbors, the UAE's denial suggests either a desire to maintain a cautious public distance from Israeli military maneuvers or a fundamental disagreement over the disclosure of sensitive diplomatic activities.

Despite the conflicting reports, Netanyahu’s administration maintains that the secret visit was a success. The Prime Minister’s office emphasized that the alleged breakthrough would have long-term benefits for regional stability, though specific details regarding the nature of the agreements were not immediately disclosed. The discrepancy between the two nations remains a point of international scrutiny as both parties manage their respective roles in the ongoing regional conflict.