US urged to act as Iran seizes tankers, say allies.

Emirati officials have expressed their disappointment in recent weeks, telling U.S. officials they must take more decisive actions in the region to deter Iran’s aggression.

The United Arab Emirates is frustrated with the United States’ response to Iran’s recent seizures of oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman. According to the Wall Street Journal, Emirati officials have called for greater deterrence against the Islamic Republic, urging the U.S. to take more decisive actions in the region.

Iran has seized two tankers in the last two months, including one carrying Kuwaiti oil destined for Houston and another transiting between the Emirati cities of Dubai and Fujairah. The Gulf state is concerned that these seizures will damage confidence in the security of the Persian Gulf, where one-third of global oil shipments pass through.

The tank seizures are the latest instance of strained relations between the United States and the UAE, a vital security partner in the region. Tensions have risen as the United States has pressured the UAE to cut ties with Russia, sanctioning Emirati companies that do business with the regime.

UAE Leader Turns Down Call with President Joe Biden

In March 2022, UAE leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan turned down the White House’s request for a call with President Joe Biden and rejected the president’s plea to boost oil production in order to lower prices.

The United States said it has taken steps to deter Iran from seizing tankers, including launching a Navy surveillance task force in the region.

Published under:

• Iran