The United States is forcing the United Arab Emirates to play a more direct role in the conflict against Iran. President Donald Trump is trying to convince the UAE to take a more radical, "boots on the ground" approach to counter Iran, which remains steadfast in the face of a combined Israel–US offensive.
It was revealed recently that the UAE had sent its air force to attack Lavan Island in May, as Iranian counterattacks targeting US bases across the region meant Abu Dhabi had to deal with over 2,800 missiles and drones.
Trump wants the UAE to seize Lavan Island from Tehran, which would be a massive blow to the Islamic Republic. The Emiratis are getting closer to Israel and the US in light of the conflict, whilst risking a strained relationship with Saudi Arabia. Benjamin Netanyahu has personally ensured that Israel's famed Iron Dome defence battery was sent to the UAE—marking the first known use of the system outside the borders of the country. The UAE also quit OPEC, the Saudi-dominated group of major oil producers.
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But why is the US cheering on the Arab nation to seize Lavan Island? The reason is that the territory is crucial for Tehran's oil production, and losing it could deal a lethal blow to the regime.
Why is Lavan Island important to Iran?
Located in the Persian Gulf, the island is almost 21 km long and about 3.2 km wide, with an area of around 76 square kilometres.
According to available information, Lavan is the operating base for three major offshore fields, namely: Salman, Resalat, and Reshadat. The infrastructure facilities it hosts include processing plants, storage and export systems, maintenance facilities, storehouses, and a loading jetty. It also has an airport.
The National Iranian Oil Company's Offshore Division has its operations based on Lavan Island. The oil produced from these offshore fields is brought here for final processing. Its proximity to some of the largest offshore complexes in the Persian Gulf makes it strategically vital to Tehran.