The United Arab Emirates announced on Wednesday that it had stopped participating in a maritime security force led by the United States, the latest hint of tensions between Washington and key Persian Gulf allies who complain that America has not done enough to protect them from Iranian threats.
The unusual public statement came after Iran seized two commercial tankers in waterways near the Emirates in quick succession over the past two months.
Emirati and Saudi officials have repeatedly expressed frustration with U.S. policy toward Iran.
“They were unhappy with the Americans, and when the U.A.E.
is not happy, they are very decisive,” said Abdulkhaleq Abdulla, an Emirati political scientist.
Persons:
”, Abdulkhaleq Abdulla
Organizations:
United Arab Emirates, Emirates, Emirati Foreign Ministry, Combined Maritime Forces, Saudi
Locations:
United States, Washington, America, Iran, Persian