Iranian strategists and media commentators in early October 2026 publicly advocated targeting UAE oil infrastructure, the Habshan-Fujairah pipeline, Fujairah port, and Dubai airport as part of ongoing regional hostilities that began in February. These calls frame the UAE as a principal adversary due to its alignment with U.S. and Israeli positions and its role in sanctions circumvention. Earlier missile and drone strikes on UAE sites largely ceased after May, coinciding with reported financial arrangements and a brief ceasefire that later collapsed. An August ballistic missile incident prompted the UAE to suspend all trade and financial transactions with Iran. UAE officials stated on October 15 that the country is better prepared for potential renewed attacks amid diplomatic deadlock, with traders assessing the risk of fresh Iranian action against Emirati territory in the near term.