US President Donald Trump and UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed discussed options for strengthening joint efforts between the two countries during a phone call on Tuesday.
During the call, the two leaders addressed various areas of cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and the United States and exchanged views on steps that would serve their mutual interests. Trump and Mohamed bin Zayed also discussed developments in the Middle East and efforts related to developments in the region.
Dispute over the Strait of Hormuz
At the time of the call, disagreements between the United States and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz were intensifying. The United States and the UAE had signed a memorandum of understanding on the strait on June 18.
Implementation of the process, which was intended to prepare for a final agreement, was disrupted by differences over the security of the Strait of Hormuz.
Background to tensions with Iran
The United States and Israel began attacks against Iran on February 28. Iran retaliated by targeting US bases and positions in the region, as well as Israel. The parties later reached a ceasefire agreement in April.
It was reported that the United States resumed its attacks against Iran between July 8 and 24, while Iran targeted US military facilities and equipment in Arab countries.
Following these developments, talks on safe passage corridors for ships in the Strait of Hormuz resumed.