UAE Builds Covert Influence in Israel, Expands AI and Defense Ties with US

Since the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020, the UAE has significantly expanded its influence in Israel, using covert financial networks to support right-wing Israeli political and security actors aligned with Abu Dhabi's vision. Concurrently, the UAE and the U.S. have deepened their strategic defense partnership, including joint innovation initiatives and the UAE's integration into the U.S. National Guard's State Partnership Program, reflecting a robust military and technological alliance. The UAE is also leveraging soft power through cultural projects like Disneyland Abu Dhabi, aiming to reshape its global image and enhance influence through culture and international partnerships, moving beyond its traditional military reputation. In the technological arena, the UAE is aggressively pursuing supremacy in artificial intelligence, aligning with U.S. goals to maintain global AI dominance, with vast investments and cooperation that combine American semiconductor leadership with the UAE's energy resources to power AI data centers. This multifaceted approach—spanning covert political influence, military collaboration, cultural diplomacy, and cutting-edge technology—illustrates the UAE's broad strategy to assert itself as a regional and global power.