UAE Signals Entry Into Strait of Hormuz Conflict as US Weighs Exit

The UAE is preparing to support efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz amidst the ongoing crisis. This marks a shift in its position as attacks from Iran continue. The move comes as the global oil supply remains under pressure and tanker movement through the route has dropped sharply in recent weeks. At the same time, the US has signaled it may scale back its role. This leaves more responsibility to regional allies.

Also Read: UAE Fuel Prices Surge as Two Global Oil Chokepoints Come Under Pressure

UAE Pushes for UN-Backed Action to Reopen Key Oil Route

Officials told The Wall Street Journal that the UAE is seeking a UN-backed resolution. The country is even reviewing options to take part in operations to reopen the Strait. This includes clearing mines and supporting naval activity.

This move comes after a series of Iranian attacks on the UAE, which have intensified in recent days. Officials reported nearly 50 missiles and drones in a single day. The total strikes are now running into the thousands since th conflict began.

Shipping data shows the impact. Transit through the Strait has dropped from around 4 million metric tons per day to barely anything. It should be noted that the route carries about 20% of global oil flows. Just yesterday, the country hiked its fuel prices for the month of April.

At the same time, President Donald Trump has indicated the US may end its campaign within weeks. This is even if the Strait is not fully reopened. This has increased pressure on regional players to act.

Also Read: Trump Tells Allies to “Take” Oil as Strait Crisis Sends Brent Up 10%

Oil Markets React to Strait Disruptions

Oil prices have moved higher, with Brent crude recording one of its strongest monthly gains in decades. Oil closed March 2026 with a 60% rise. This is the largest since the futures contract launched in 1988.

On the contrary, Brent crude saw a notable drop below $100 following Trump’s statement. Currently, oil prices are at $99.37 following a 4.42% drop over the past day. Just yesterday, it was priced at a high of $108.09.

Several have pointed to limited alternative routes and ongoing disruptions in other corridors as well. Grant Rumley, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute, said,

“The proximity along the strait means that you can team up and place different platforms there to protect shipping and go after Iranian targets on the other side of the Gulf.”

The UAE’s involvement would mark the first time a Gulf country takes a direct role in reopening the Strait. Any operation would require securing both the waterway and the surrounding coastline. Analysts suggest that this could be difficult given Iran’s ability to disrupt traffic with relatively low-cost assets.

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