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UAE busts Iran-linked terror cell, arrests members over plot to destabilise state
Investigations showed they recruited and indoctrinated members through secret meetings to reach sensitive positions
- PUBLISHED: Mon 20 Apr 2026, 4:59 PM UPDATED: Mon 20 Apr 2026, 6:54 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog for the latest regional developments with the US-Israel-Iran ceasefire now in effect.]
The UAE's State Security dismantled a terrorist organisation and arrested its members for an alleged plot to damage national unity and destabilise the country. The State Security Department on Monday disclosed the identities of 27 individuals and released their photographs.
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In an official statement, authorities said the group members were involved in covert activities, including plans to carry out coordinated terrorist and sabotage operations within the UAE. Investigations also revealed alleged links between the organisation and Iran's Wilayat al-Faqih doctrine. Popularised by Ayatollah Khomeini, Wilayat al-Faqih (Guardianship of the Jurist) is a key Shi'a political doctrine. It forms the basis of Iran's constitution, establishing a "Supreme Leader" to manage state affairs and protect Islamic law.
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Authorities reported that surveillance and further investigations showed the suspects held clandestine meetings inside and outside the country with people linked to terrorist or suspicious groups. They are also accused of adopting extremist ideologies that threaten the UAE’s internal security, spreading false information among young Emiratis, recruiting them for foreign interests, and encouraging dissent against the country’s policies.
Below are the 27 individuals identified by the authorities and accused of attempting to place members in sensitive positions, including through covert recruitment and indoctrination activities coordinated with external entities.
These arrests follow last month's dismantling of a terrorist network funded and operated by Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Iran, along with the arrest of its members. The network operated within the country under a fictitious commercial cover. It sought to infiltrate the national economy and carry out external schemes that threatened the country’s financial stability.
How UAE security forces arrested the accused?
Authorities released dramatic footage revealing the scope of their operation and how members were apprehended. In a series of coordinated raids conducted across the UAE, security forces arrested suspects at their homes, an apparent office, and while on the move.
The video also revealed the recovery of a substantial cash stash, which served as evidence in the ongoing investigation. These assets are tied to allegations that the group also collected funds through unofficial means and transferred them to suspicious external entities.
What security forces recovered from the suspects
Investigations recovered a cache of materials linked to extremist ideologies, including documents, books, and CDs. A large number of these items featured Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, such as his book “To the Youth”. Some CD covers featured the former supreme leader, and one was inscribed with the words "Long live the resistance" (which can also be translated as “glory to the resistance”). Books praising the deceased Supreme Leader and Hezbollah-related documents were also found.
The footage also revealed more evidence of terror plans, including what looked like a crude, handmade drone with a toolkit of electronics, including a remote control. Several photographs of Iranian leaders were also seized.
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The suspects face charges of creating and running a secret group in the country, pledging loyalty to foreign groups, and taking actions seen as harmful to national unity and social stability.
Iran targeting UAE
The UAE has endured a large number of missile and drone attacks originating from Iran during the conflict before US President Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire on April 8. During the conflict, the UAE has largely avoided the extensive damage and casualties seen elsewhere in the region. This is due to its strong air defence system, which intercepted more than 2,500 incoming aerial threats.
The UAE described the strikes on its civilian infrastructure and energy sector as a terrorist act and a blatant violation of international law. The Emirates also reaffirmed its right to defend its territory. The attacks by Iran were termed as retaliation for strikes carried out by the US and Israel on February 28.
The State Security Department reaffirmed its firm commitment to confronting any threats to public security, calling on citizens and residents to report suspicious activities through official channels to further strengthen security and stability.
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.