After Trump tells allies to ‘get your own oil,’ UAE prepares for military action to open Strait of Hormuz

UAE hopes for UN resolution to support Hormuz Coalition but is ready to act alone

All Israel News Staff | Published: April 1, 2026

Map of Strait of Hormuz. Image by Pascal - This image is a derivative work of [1]http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/middle_east_and_asia/hormuz_80.jpg from [2] http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/middle_east.html, which was created by the w:Central Intelligence Agency in 1980 and hence is PD-US-Gov, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=79202Map of Strait of Hormuz. Image by Pascal –  Public Domain, Wikipedia

The United Arab Emirates is preparing to join potential military operations to open the Strait of Hormuz, The Wall Street Journal reported, after U.S. President Trump signaled he wants U.S. allies to deal with opening the strategic waterway.

Gulf officials told the newspaper that the UAE believes a UN Security Council resolution supporting military action could encourage countries in Asia and Europe to help clear the strait, but that the Emirates is prepared to join the fighting even without a resolution.

The WSJ recently reported that Trump is willing to end the war without resolving the issue.

On Tuesday, the U.S. president again slammed his allies for refusing to join the fighting against Iran, writing on Truth Social, “All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.”

“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil! President DJT,” he added.

On Tuesday, oil prices in the U.S. reached $4 per gallon in some regions, the highest price since 2022. Trump later told CBS News that the U.S. would not immediately abandon the strait, but added, “At some point I will, not quite yet, but countries have to come in and take care of it.”

“Iran has been decimated, but they’re going to have to come in and do their own work.”

“There are countries around the world who ought be prepared to step up on this critical waterway as well. It’s not just the United States Navy,” said U.S. War Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday.

The UAE would be the first Gulf country to become a direct combatant in the war, after being the prime target for Iranian attacks over the past month. The Iranian regime has pounded its cities, ports and energy installations with over 2,500 missiles and drones so far, even more than it shot at Israel.

Behind the scenes, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have reportedly been pushing the U.S. to go “for the kill” against the Iranian regime. The Emirati ambassador to the U.S., Yousef Al Otaiba, wrote in the WSJ last week that the war necessitates “a conclusive outcome that addresses Iran’s full range of threats: nuclear capabilities, missiles, drones, terror proxies and blockades of international sea lanes.”

Now, the Emirates could be about to enter the war in earnest. Its diplomats have urged the U.S. and allies in Europe and Asia to form a coalition to open the strait by force, the WSJ reported.

The United Nations is set to vote this Thursday on a resolution to that effect. The resolution is sponsored by Bahrain. The report added that the UAE is still prepared to fight even if the resolution fails, as Russia and China could veto it, while France is proposing a different wording.

The Emirati official told the WSJ that the UAE’s military is reviewing its capabilities to contribute to the effort to open the straits, including the clearing of mines and offering support for later, probably U.S.-led operations, via its ports in the Gulf.

The Gulf state has also said the U.S. should occupy islands in the strategic waterway, including Abu Musa, which has been held by Iran for a half-century and is claimed by the UAE, other Arab officials said.

Following relatively quiet weeks, Iran has increased its attacks on the UAE in recent days, launching almost 50 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones on Tuesday.

Also on Tuesday, an advisor to the president of the UAE, Anwar Gargash, who has released several strongly-worded statements against the regime, published a cryptic statement on ?, praising the nation’s military.

“A salute of pride and honor to the officers and soldiers of our valiant armed forces, and to every officer, policeman, paramedic, and firefighter – our pride that we cherish, the swords of justice and the impregnable fortress that protects the homeland and safeguards its security in the face of a treacherous and malevolent Iranian aggression. And as the poet said: I found them giving courage its due.”

April 1, 2026 | 13 Comments »

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  1. Something else which needs to be noted is that oil is not the only product being blocked by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. One third of the world’s fertilizer comes from the Persian Gulf and a massive trade route from Europe and Asia to the Middle Eastern nations goes into the Persian Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz.

    • @Peloni I googled: “where does israel get its fertilizer”

      and got: AI Overview: +6 Israel is a major producer and exporter of fertilizers, primarily deriving potash and bromine from the Dead Sea and mining phosphates in the Negev Desert. ICL Group (Israel Chemicals Ltd.) is the main domestic producer. Israel imports additional fertilizers (nitrogen) from countries like Russia, Egypt, and China, along with raw sulphur for processing.Key Fertilizer Sources & Production:Domestic Production (Potash & Phosphate): ICL subsidiaries (such as Rotem Amfert Negev) extract phosphate rock from Negev mines (Oron, Zin, Rotem). The Dead Sea provides magnesium chloride, potash, and bromide.Specialty Fertilizers: Companies like Haifa Group produce high-soluble fertilizers, such as potassium nitrate, locally.Import Sources: Key import sources for fertilizers and raw materials include Russia, Egypt, China, Spain, and the UAE.Logistics & Raw Materials: While self-sufficient in potash and phosphate, Israel imports sulphur for phosphate production, which can be vulnerable to supply chain disruptions.Israel also exports significant amounts of fertilizer, functioning as a key global player in potash and specialty fertilizers.”

      1

      • Q: where does israel get sulphur

        AI Overview: +4 Israel primarily obtains sulphur through imports to support its significant phosphate and fertilizer industry, with major suppliers including Russia, Greece, and Georgia.Key details regarding Israel’s sulphur sourcing:Top Import Partners (2023): Russia was the largest supplier, accounting for 84% ($75 million) of imports, followed by Greece (9.68%) and Georgia (3.69%). Other suppliers include the United Arab Emirates, Japan, and India.Industry Demand: Sulphur is crucial for Israel’s production of sulfuric acid, which is used by firms like ICL Group for manufacturing phosphoric acid and phosphate fertilizers.Logistics: Large quantities of sulphur are imported through the Port of Ashdod.Local Sources: While a minor sulfur deposit was identified in Beeri in the western Negev in 1929, it is not a current commercial source.Refining Byproduct: Some sulphur is produced as a byproduct of oil and gas refining within Israel.Although Turkey was listed as a top partner for “Salt; sulphur; earths and stone” in 2023 (covering a broad category), specific data for refined sulphur points to Russia and Greece as the primary sources.

        • Q: does israel import or export anything from to ukraine

          AI Overview:

          +7 Yes, Israel and Ukraine maintain active trade relations, with Israel exporting mainly refined petroleum, navigation equipment, and chemicals while importing agricultural goods, particularly corn and wheat. Despite the ongoing conflict, trade continues, with Israeli exports to Ukraine totaling over $500 million in 2024 and imports from Ukraine reaching over $460 million,.Key Trade and Economic Aspects:Israeli Exports to Ukraine: Key products include refined petroleum ($267M), navigation equipment ($93M), pesticides, and other chemical/industrial products.Ukrainian Exports to Israel: The majority of imports consist of agricultural raw materials, with corn ($167M), wheat ($52.3M), and other vegetable residues being the primary products.Trade Agreement: A free trade agreement between Israel and Ukraine came into effect in 2021, aiming to reduce tariffs and expand trade, particularly in agricultural goods and industrial products.Humanitarian and Technical Support: Israel has provided humanitarian aid, including medical equipment, water purification systems, and clothing. Additionally, Israel provided technology for a missile alert system that began operating in Kyiv in 2023.Trends: In recent years, Israeli exports to Ukraine have increased significantly, while Ukrainian exports to Israel have seen a decline.

      • @Sebastien

        Israel is a major producer and exporter of fertilizers

        They are responsible for about 1.5% of world fertilizer exports. The Persian Gulf has 30% going thru it. Just for sake of comparisons.

        • @Peloni

          Q: is Israel mostly self-reliant for its own fertilizer needs

          AI Overview:

          +6 Israel is highly self-reliant in producing nitrogen and phosphate-based fertilizers, largely driven by Israel Chemicals Ltd. (ICL) extracting minerals from the Dead Sea and mining in the Negev desert. While it exports large quantities of potash and phosphate, Israel remains partially reliant on imports for specific fertilizer components (like potash specialized products or nitrogenous materials) and is not fully food self-sufficient.Key points on Israel’s fertilizer and agricultural self-reliance:Fertilizer Production: Israel is a major global player in fertilizer production, exporting significant amounts of phosphate and potash, ensuring a secure local supply for its own agricultural needs.Import Reliance: Despite being a fertilizer exporter, Israel relies on imports for a large portion of its food, particularly grains, oilseeds, and livestock feed.Food Security Concerns: Reports indicate that in a crisis, Israel could potentially produce enough vegetables for its population, but it is heavily dependent on imports for staples, animal-based products, and, consequently, certain agricultural inputs.Production Challenges: The agriculture sector faces challenges from limited water and land, high costs of production, and reliance on foreign workers.

          Recall, Bibi saying Israel needs to prepare for autarchy, if need be in the coming period? It seems Israel needs to produce more of its own foodstuffs. That could be a weak link.That or go vegan.

          though:

          “is israel most vegan country ”

          AI Overview: +6 “Israel is widely considered to have the highest percentage of vegans per capita in the world, with estimates often cited around 5% to 8% of the population. Tel Aviv is frequently dubbed the “vegan capital of the world” due to its dense concentration of over 400 certified vegan-friendly restaurants and high accessibility to plant-based options.Key factors contributing to this trend include:High Costs of Animal Products: Dairy and meat are expensive, while produce is relatively affordable, encouraging plant-based alternatives.Cultural Adaptability: A strong culture of animal rights activism, a fast-paced “vegan revolution,” and the proliferation of vegan-friendly Mediterranean cuisine (like hummus, falafel, and salads).Military Accommodation: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) offer vegan options, including leather-free boots and wool-free berets, making it easy for soldiers to maintain a vegan diet.Technological Innovation: High investment in cultivated meat and dairy startups.While some sources list India or Mexico as having high vegan populations (around 9%), Israel consistently ranks at the top for veganism per capita in the Western world and has a unique, widespread cultural embrace of the lifestyle, especially among young people and women.”

          Also, makes it easier to keep kosher.

          “is kosher veganism popular +6 Yes, kosher veganism is becoming increasingly popular, particularly in Israel, which has one of the highest percentages of vegans per capita in the world (about 5%). The intersection of ethical, health-conscious, and religious motivations makes it a growing trend, with many kosher consumers seeking out plant-based options due to compassion for animals and environmental concerns.Here are key aspects of the popularity of kosher veganism:Growing Movement in Israel: Israel is a hotbed for this trend, with widespread veganism in the country driven by both secular and, increasingly, religious (“Orthodox”) communities.Ethical and Dietary Harmony: Many find that a vegan lifestyle fits within the Jewish tradition’s focus on compassion for animals and maintaining health.”Vegan-Friendly” Certification: While many plant-based foods are inherently kosher, there is a rising demand for certified vegan, kosher products and restaurants, such as in New York.Mainstream Acceptance: High-profile proponents, such as Mayim Bialik, have increased the visibility of this lifestyle.Challenges in Dining Out: Despite popularity, strict kosher observers often avoid non-certified vegan restaurants due to concerns about food preparation and contamination, leading to a need for certified kosher-vegan establishments.In summary, kosher veganism is on the rise as more people align their dietary choices with both religious laws and ethical, sustainable living.”

    • There are more open questions than answers.

      Since when did the WSJ become a dependent news source?
      Who actually gets the oil from Iran apart from China?
      Who do the other oil producing countries provide oil to?

      While DJT has been beating the drum about NATO allies not joining him in the gulf, it seems that most of them get their oil elsewhere, like Norway for example. This may be a factor in their seeming reluctance to join the fight. And while taking Norway into account, why have all these NATO allies raised their gas prices at the pump? Are they simply grabbing cash and declaring that “market demands” cause the price?

      I wonder if DJT’s call for these countries to come and get their own oil would also take over the responsibility of governing Iran? Would Shiite Moslems be no longer relevant in this new scenario?

      Obviously, opening the straits is not the real target right now. Everybody keeps looking at the Iranian oil supply but what about all the others? They are probably of more interest to the rest of the world than Iranian oil which goes predominantly to China, although some of them may be dealing with China too, especially when they will be willing to pay more than the bargain price they have been paying so far.

      Whatever the outcome, it is long past time that Iran stop its bullying of the rest of the Middle East and especially my favorite country, Israel. We have heard that Israel is still bombing targets all over Iran but the rush of explanations has slowed somewhat. Nonetheless, Israel has a right to expect compensation for all the blood, sweat and tears that it has expended over the last almost 50 years due to Iranian provocations by Hamas, Hezbollah and the Houthis. Can we expect Israel to grab some of that well deserved Iranian oil too?

      • @dreuveni I googled: “through what route does israel get its oil from azerbaijan”

        and got:

        AI Overview

        +5 ” Israel receives a significant portion of its oil from Azerbaijan via the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline, which transports crude from the Caspian Sea across Georgia and Turkey to the Mediterranean port of Ceyhan. From Ceyhan, tankers transport the oil to Israeli ports such as Ashkelon, Haifa, and Ashdod.Pipeline Route: The 1,768km BTC pipeline is the primary conduit, traveling 443km in Azerbaijan, 249km in Georgia, and 1,076km in Turkey.Maritime Route: Crude is loaded onto tankers at the Turkish port of Ceyhan (operated by BOTAS) and shipped to Israel.Key Suppliers: Oil shipped via this route is often managed by companies such as SOCAR (Azerbaijan), BP, and various international trading firms.Strategic Importance: Azerbaijan, along with Kazakhstan, has supplied a significant portion of Israel’s total oil imports, often accounting for 40–60% of their needs, even amid regional conflicts.Alternative/Ongoing Flows: Despite Turkey’s announced trade restrictions against Israel, oil from Azerbaijan continues to flow through the BTC pipeline and is exported from Ceyhan to Israel.”

        • @Peloni
          @dreuveni

          “Israel weathers energy shock from Iran war even as world battles crisis
          Gianluca PACCHIANI AFP Mar 31, 2026 Updated 1 hr ago

          Since Israel and its US ally started the Middle East war on February 28, economies from Asia to Europe and the United States have come under pressure from surging oil and natural gas prices that have driven up fuel and electricity costs.

          Israel, however, has remained largely insulated from the shock. Central to this has been a trio of major gas fields sitting deep below the Mediterranean.

          The discovery of offshore natural gas has allowed Israel to be in a situation where it isn’t feeling the economic pinch on the energy front the way that other countries are,” said Gabriel Mitchell, energy security analyst and Visiting Policy Fellow at the German Marshall Fund.

          Natural gas, all of which comes from those three fields, now accounts for 70 percent of Israel’s electricity generation and 45 percent of its total energy supply, according to the International Energy Agency.

          The sale of that gas is governed by long-term, fixed-price contracts which have helped keep prices steady despite the war.

          Nevertheless, the conflict has still impacted Israel’s gas production.

          At the outbreak of the war, Israel ordered energy giants Chevron and Energean to suspend operations at two of the three fields, Leviathan and Karish respectively, as a precaution against potential missile strikes.

          The shutdowns also cut off exports to neighbouring Egypt and Jordan, which take the vast majority of Leviathan’s output.

          A strike on a pressurised, operational gas field would be devastating, said Amit Mor, a senior lecturer at Reichman University.

          “Once a platform is hit by a missile, the explosion might be enormous and might be a total loss which takes years and billions of dollars to rebuild,” he said.

          – ‘The existential one’ –
          That leaves the Tamar field as Israel’s energy lifeline.

          Producing roughly 11 billion cubic metres (BCM) of gas annually, Tamar nearly covers Israel’s entire domestic consumption of 12 to 13 billion cubic metres of gas per year.

          “Tamar is the existential one,” said Mitchell.

          “Israel can live without exporting natural gas to its neighbours. It can live without operating the Karish field temporarily. But from a national security perspective, Tamar is essential.”

          To compensate for the shortfall created by the shutdowns, Israel has relied on a mix of alternative energy sources.

          Coal-fired plants, previously converted to gas but which retained a dual-fuel capability, have been reactivated.

          Diesel generation has also been brought online, though at a cost.

          Both fuels are significantly more expensive than natural gas, and Israeli electricity consumers can expect tariffs to rise accordingly when the Electricity Authority revises rates in June.

          For Israel’s gas-importing neighbours, though, the picture is a grim one.

          Jordan and Egypt rely heavily on Gulf fuel imports and gas from the now-shuttered Leviathan field.

          Egypt this month imposed a 9 pm curfew on shops, restaurants and malls to curb energy use with prices having more than doubled since the start of the war.

          Both Amman and Cairo have reportedly formally requested that Israel resume gas exports.

          Israel has reportedly rejected their requests, prioritising its own wartime energy security over regional supply commitments.

          – Resilient supply chains –
          On the oil front, Israel’s supply chains have proved resilient, largely because they bypass the Strait of Hormuz.

          Most of Israel’s oil comes from Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, flowing through pipelines into Turkey before being shipped by sea.

          Oil prices, however, are set by the global market and while there haven’t been shortages in Israel, prices at the pump have still shot up.

          Israel’s energy ministry said that petrol would hit eight shekels ($2.50) a litre for the first time in two years. Israel already had among the highest prices in the world.

          Oil supplies are also a strategic consideration for the country.

          Israel’s largest oil refinery, Bazan in the northern port city of Haifa, also produces the jet fuel powering the Israeli air force’s long-range strike missions in Iran.

          The plant has been struck by Iranian missiles three times, including on Sunday, but was quickly repaired each time and remains largely operational.

          “A round trip from Israel to Tehran consumes between 10 and 12 tonnes of jet fuel, depending on the type of aircraft… that is the amount that an average family car utilises in 10 to 20 years,” Mor said.

          glp-jd/dcp

          Originally published on doc.afp.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange

          http://doc.afp.com/A64N2G3