PANews reported on April 1st, citing the Wall Street Journal, that Arab officials stated the UAE is preparing to assist the US and its allies in forcibly opening the Strait of Hormuz following the Iranian attack. This move would make the UAE the first Gulf state to directly intervene in the conflict. Officials indicated the UAE is currently lobbying the UN Security Council to pass a resolution authorizing such military action. One UAE official revealed that its diplomats have urged the US and major European and Asian military powers to form an alliance to forcibly open the strait. The official added that the Iranian regime believes it is fighting for its survival and is willing to drag the global economy down with it by blocking the strait. The official also stated that the UAE is actively assessing its military role in securing the strait, including assisting in mine clearance and providing other support services. Furthermore, some Arab officials mentioned that the Gulf state has also proposed that the US occupy relevant islands within the strategic waterway, including Abu Musa Island, which has been under Iranian control for half a century but is claimed by the UAE.