Israel has ordered the withdrawal of all its diplomatic personnel from the United Arab Emirates, amid rising diplomatic friction and updated travel warnings issued by the Israeli National Security Council (NSC).
The move follows the recall of Israeli Ambassador to the UAE, Amir Hayek Yossi Abraham Shelley, after Emirati authorities reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over his conduct. Local reports suggest that Shelley was involved in inappropriate behavior at a bar in Abu Dhabi and had engaged in confrontations with security officials.
On Thursday, Israel’s National Security Council issued a travel advisory warning of potential threats to Israelis and Jewish individuals in the UAE, particularly during Shabbat and Jewish holidays. The advisory cites heightened tensions stemming from Israel’s recent 12-day military operation in Iran, as well as the ongoing offensive in Gaza, which has drawn widespread international condemnation.
Human rights organizations and several countries have labeled the attacks in Gaza as acts of genocide, further isolating Israel diplomatically.
Israel and the UAE established formal diplomatic ties in 2020 through the Abraham Accords, making the UAE the third Arab nation—after Egypt (1979) and Jordan (1994)—to recognize Israel. In 2022, the two countries signed a free trade agreement and launched direct flights between Dubai and Tel Aviv, bolstering bilateral trade and tourism.
Israeli officials have long referred to the UAE as one of the safest destinations for Israeli travelers. However, the latest developments suggest growing strain in the relationship. Earlier this week, the UAE reportedly filed an official diplomatic complaint against Shelley following multiple incidents involving inappropriate behavior.
Analysts say that while strategic ties between the two nations remain intact, the recent frictions highlight underlying tensions and the potential fragility of the partnership.
Sources: Reuters, Middle East Eye, The Jerusalem Post