UAE Halts Acquisition Of Defense Systems From Israel Amid Political Uncertainty: Report

The UAE has reportedly suspended its purchase of Israel defense systems amid the political turmoil besetting the country.

The actions of the new right-wing, hardline Israeli government in Tel Aviv over the past weeks have encouraged the UAE's decision to cease acquiring advanced surface-to-air missile systems and other defense systems from them, the Middle East Monitor reported, citing the country's Channel 12.

In September 2022, Israel had granted a request from the UAE to supply Rafael-made SPYDER mobile interceptors to the country. The Gulf nation also allegedly ordered from Israel equipment that could counter drone attacks. It remains unknown whether the defense systems have already been shipped or how many are yet to be delivered.

Israel has made headlines over the past few months due to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's policies and moves to overhaul the country's judicial system. The country also instigated war on East Jerusalem last month when Israeli forces started to crack down on Palestinians across the city under the instruction of Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's far-right National Security Minister.

The Israeli government's anti-Palestinian sentiments, particularly Ben Gvir's storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, prompted the UAE government to halt its acquisition of defense systems from the country. This was further triggered by Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's recent call for the Israeli state to wipe out the Palestinian village of Huwara, which kindled an international cry.

Amid the political uncertainty in Israel, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed told Netanyahu that the country would stop doing business with Israel until the new Prime Minister proves he has his government under control, BNN reported.

"Until we can ascertain that Prime Minister Netanyahu has a government that he can control, we can't work together," Israel's Channel 12 quoted Sheikh Mohammed as saying, the Middle East Monitor reported.

Sheikh Mohammed's decision comes two months after Netanyahu deferred his first official visit to the UAE in January.

Meanwhile, the news outlet noted that while the UAE has suspended purchase of defense systems from Israel, intelligence and security cooperation between the two countries remains in full swing.

Channel 12 also reported Netanyahu's office issued a statement denying the report, and added the UAE and Israel have "fruitful diplomatic contact... including today."