Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reported weekend visit to Abu Dhabi and his meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed have sparked fresh questions over Israel-UAE ties, regional security and the political pressure facing Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s upcoming Knesset election. The meeting, confirmed by UAE state media, focused on strengthening bilateral relations and regional developments, including Iran. The visit has also drawn renewed attention to a separate and highly contentious report by Haaretz alleging that MBZ had warned Netanyahu before the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack about a potential major threat. According to the report, the alleged warning concerned then-Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and a planned “huge surprise.” Netanyahu has denied receiving any advance warning from the UAE and has challenged the allegations. The UAE has said it does not comment on media reports or speculation surrounding conversations between leaders, while stating that UAE and Israeli government entities have maintained direct communication channels. WATCH