U.S. officials urge UAE to target Iran’s Lavan Island

Senior U.S. officials are encouraging the United Arab Emirates to seize Lavan Island, a strategically vital Iranian energy hub in the Persian Gulf, according to reports. The proposal aims to deepen Emirati involvement in the ongoing conflict with Iran while reducing the need for direct American ground forces.

A former senior Trump administration security official was quoted as saying, "Go take 'em! It would be UAE boots on the ground instead of US." The suggestion reflects broader pressure in Washington to limit U.S. military exposure as the war enters its third month. Pentagon officials recently told Congress the conflict has cost the United States roughly $29 billion, largely for missile procurement and air-defense operations, straining American weapons stockpiles.

Lavan Island is a key operating base for several major offshore oil fields and hosts critical infrastructure including processing plants, storage systems, and a loading jetty. Its capture would represent a significant blow to Iran's energy exports.

The push for greater Emirati involvement comes amid reports of increased military and security coordination between the UAE, the United States, and Israel during the...