Saudi Arabia’s changing strategy and the quiet strain with the UAE
Peloni: As it is often noted, October 7 changed everything. Something which goes unnoted in this report is that the state run media has escalated rhetoric of Jew Hatred, while also weaponizing UAE’s participation in the Abraham Accords against the UAE. These are important aspects of the shift taking root in Riyadh.
Growing tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE reflect shifting Gulf alliances, with implications for Israel and the US role in the region.
By SETH J. FRANTZMAN | JANUARY 26, 2026
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (C), Abu Dhabi Crown Prince (L) and Yemeni President Hadi attend the signing ceremony of the Riyadh agreement. By Saudi Press Agency, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikipedia
Over the last month, there have been growing reports of a rift between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Nothing in this story is simplistic. While some media may see a new struggle emerging, in the Middle East it’s always possible that countries disagree on certain issues, but not on others.
2025 Israeli Film Festival. Screengrab via 
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