UAE arrests Iran-linked cell planning sabotage operations

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UAE arrests Iran-linked cell planning sabotage operations

April 20, 2026

UAE security forces arrest Iran-linked cell on Apr 20, 2026 — UAE security forces have arrested members of a suspected cell linked to Iran, according to police reports released on April 20, 2026. Photo: UAE security forces/via WAM

ABU DHABI,— UAE security authorities have broken up a terrorist network and arrested its members for carrying out covert activities aimed at destabilizing the country, the UAE State Security Department said, as reported by the state-run news agency.

The department said the group was linked to Iran’s “Wilayat al-Faqih” ideology and had ties to Iran.

Members adopted extremist ideologies that threatened internal security, authorities told state media.

Investigations revealed the group held secret meetings inside and outside the UAE with terrorist elements and suspicious organizations.

Authorities said members worked under a coordinated plan with external parties to gain access to sensitive locations.

The group also worked to spread misleading ideas among Emirati youth, recruit them in support of foreign allegiances, incite opposition to UAE foreign policy and internal measures, and portray the country negatively, the department said.

Members collected funds through unofficial channels and transferred the money to external organizations abroad, according to authorities.

Charges brought against the arrested members include establishing a secret organization, managing its operations within the country, pledging loyalty to foreign parties, and working to undermine national unity and social peace.

In March 2026, UAE authorities said they dismantled a separate “terrorist network” also linked to Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Iran.

(With files from WAM)