Israeli spy chief David Barnea (Dadi) has been in the headlines for covert UAE visits and deepening security ties amid Iran tensions. Mossad director since 2021.
Since the start of the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, there has been no significant uprising or regime collapse. Iran's government remains stable, with internal loyalty strengthened by the ongoing conflict, despite international efforts to incite change and weaken its leadership.
Israel’s prime minister has said he has made a secret March 26 trip to Al‑Ain to meet UAE president Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and has called it a “historic breakthrough.” The UAE has denied the visit. Multiple outlets have reported broader Israel–UAE defence cooperation during the Iran war, including Iron Dome batteries and alleged intelligence coordination.
Israel and the United Arab Emirates are coordinating more closely in response to the Iran crisis, with reports that Mossad chief David Barnea and Shin Bet head David Zini have visited the UAE to discuss wartime coordination, security sharing, and potential strikes against Iran.