The United Arab Emirates (UAE) officially withdrew from OPEC and OPEC+ on Tuesday, delivering a significant blow to the oil-exporting alliances amidst a historic energy crisis fueled by the ongoing war with Iran.
The departure comes as Gulf producers struggle to maintain exports through the Strait of Hormuz.
The strategic chokepoint, situated between Iran and Oman, typically handles 20% of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas, but has recently been plagued by Iranian threats and maritime attacks.
The move aligns with the stance of US President Donald Trump, who has frequently accused OPEC of "ripping off the rest of the world" through price inflation.
President Trump has explicitly tied US military protection for Gulf nations to oil market behavior, arguing that OPEC members "exploit" American defense support by "imposing high oil prices."
Domestically, the UAE’s exit appears driven by frustration over a perceived lack of regional solidarity. Diplomatic adviser Anwar Gargash criticized fellow Arab and Gulf states for failing to provide adequate protection against Iranian strikes during the conflict.
Speaking at the Gulf Influencers Forum on Monday, Gargash described the regional political and military response as "the weakest historically."
While he noted that he expected such a stance from the Arab League, he expressed profound surprise at the lack of support from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), stating, "I haven’t expected it from the Cooperation Council and I am surprised by it."
Source: Aljazeera
