Stalling in the polls, Netanyahu preps his doomsday weapon – in Abu Dhabi

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the United Arab Emirates for six hours on Sunday, primarily discussing Iran with UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan (MBZ), according to sources speaking to The Jerusalem Post. The leaders had also communicated several times via phone prior to the meeting. The visit came after Netanyahu exerted strong pressure on the Emiratis to arrange a meeting before the elections, sources close to the matter revealed.

Emirati officials described the pressure as especially intense, including phone calls, efforts by Netanyahu's associates and international officials, and even subtle hints about future security cooperation. A date for a previous visit was set several days prior, with all preparations complete, but the visit was unexpectedly canceled at the last minute.

The Emiratis later claimed that MBZ was not in the country when the visit was supposed to occur, a claim that was later proven incorrect. Netanyahu's pressure also stems from a report that MBZ called him shortly before October 7, warning of an "earthquake" in Gaza. It's possible that the Emirates' unofficial denial on the eve of the holiday was meant to appease Netanyahu for the canceled visit.

The relations between the two nations have been tense for some time, with Netanyahu allegedly pushing for the trip, though the UAE has not officially confirmed it. Israeli pressure to arrange the meeting continued until it took place on Sunday, though the UAE has not yet released an official statement about the visit.