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Press Release | Jan. 17, 2023

CENTCOM Commander calls UAE Leadership on Anniversary of Attack by Iran-Aligned Group

USCENTCOM

Jan. 17, 2023

Release Number 20230117-02

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAMPA, Fla. – On the one-year anniversary of the Jan. 17, 2022 drone and missile attack on Abu Dhabi by Iran-aligned forces, Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command, called the Chief of Staff of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, Staff Lt. Gen. Engineer Issa Saif Mohammed Al Mazrouei, today, to reinforce the importance of the strategic partnership between CENTCOM and UAE.

“Last year’s attack by Houthi forces on private citizens, civilians, and public facilities on Emirati soil is a stark reminder of the risk to the region posed by Iranian-backed groups,” said Kurilla.

Kurilla also said, “UAE has always been a strong and reliable partner. I recognize the sacrifice that UAE has made over the past twenty years in multiple operations and campaigns alongside CENTCOM forces. CENTCOM is committed to the security and stability of the region.”

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