New Delhi: A debate has emerged in the United Arab Emirates over the continued presence of United States military bases following recent tensions in West Asia involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
The discussion gained momentum after reported Iranian strikes on sites linked to the US in the UAE. Commentator Abdulkhaleq Abdulla stated that American military facilities are no longer strategic assets for the country and have become a burden.
In a public statement, Abdulla said it is time to consider closing US bases. He argued that the UAE has shown its ability to defend itself during recent hostilities. He added that the country no longer depends on the United States for protection in the same way as before.
Abdulla said the UAE should instead focus on acquiring advanced weapons and strengthening its own defence systems. He noted that investing in modern military technology would better serve national security than hosting foreign bases.
The debate comes amid claims by Iran that it carried out strikes on US-linked military sites in the UAE. Iran also claimed casualties among US personnel, though these claims have not been independently confirmed by the United States.
Reports indicated that Iran targeted US-linked locations in multiple countries, including Bahrain, Iraq, and Kuwait, during the escalation. UAE authorities stated that they intercepted a large number of missiles and drones during the incident.
The developments have triggered wider discussions on regional security and defence strategy in the Gulf.
