Rumors of “Bin Zayed’s” Death Ignite Saudi–UAE Conflict… U.S. Congresswoman Intervenes
A Saudi social media campaign promotes claims of a supposed heart attack suffered by the UAE president, while unexpected American involvement fuels further speculation about his health condition.
NYN | Reports and Analyses
Media tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have escalated following the widespread circulation of rumors claiming the death of UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, in what media circles describe as a new development in a “battle of attrition” between the two Gulf capitals.
The rumor sparked widespread speculation after the Turkish presidency deleted a news item that had referred to the postponement of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to the UAE due to a health issue reportedly affecting the Emirati leader. The report was later removed.
Turkish Deletion Fuels Speculation
According to circulating accounts, the removal of the Turkish report intensified questions about Bin Zayed’s health, amid talk of Emirati pressure that allegedly prompted Ankara to swiftly delete the story.
Saudi Media Machine Leads Promotion
Saudi social media accounts known for their proximity to propaganda circles linked to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman circulated claims that Bin Zayed had suffered a heart attack and died. Observers viewed this as part of a media escalation targeting Abu Dhabi amid growing disagreements between the two sides.
U.S. Enters the Rumor Line
Notably, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and considered close to former President Donald Trump, unexpectedly weighed in on the rumors.
Ernst denied reports of Mohammed bin Zayed’s death, stating that he “is still alive.” However, according to observers, her wording did not include any clear confirmation that he was in good health, which fueled further debate rather than calming speculation.
Saudi Escalation Against Abu Dhabi
Ernst’s comment came in response to a post by an American journalist who described the death rumors as the latest step in an escalating Saudi campaign aimed at undermining the UAE and weakening its political and regional influence.
