Leaked Document Reveals: Abu Dhabi Viewed Saudi Arabia as a Strategic Threat and Ignored “Israel”
A diplomatic leak dating back to 2009 reopens files of deep-seated rifts between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi.
NYN | Reports and Analyses
Saudi media platforms have revealed a confidential diplomatic document attributed to WikiLeaks, dating back to 2009, issued by the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and addressed to the U.S. Department of State. The document includes an Emirati security assessment of sources of threat in the Gulf region and the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia at the Top of the Threat List… and the Absence of “Israel” Sparks Controversy
According to the document, the United Arab Emirates classified the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as its second-largest security threat after Iran, while the Israeli occupying entity was not included on the list of threats. This omission has sparked widespread controversy following the recent resurfacing of the document, given its sensitive political and security implications.
Saudi Reading: The Assessment Explains Abu Dhabi’s Hostile Behavior
Commenting on the document’s contents, Saudi journalist Salman Al-Ansari said it provides a clear explanation for repeated Emirati attempts—according to his description—to undermine Saudi interests and harm its security. He noted that the assessment reflects a long-standing Emirati strategic outlook toward Riyadh that has not changed despite declared alliances.
A Sensitive Timing Reignites Disputes
The leak and renewed circulation of the document come at a highly sensitive time, amid escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE against the backdrop of rapid developments in southern Yemen. This has brought deep-rooted disputes between the two countries back to the forefront and reopened questions about the origins of the conflict, its future boundaries, and its repercussions for the regional landscape.
