UAE lodges complaint against Israeli ambassador over 'misbehavior'
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The UAE lodges complaints against Israeli Ambassador Yossi Shelley over misconduct, clashes with local security, and crossing "red lines" at a bar in Abu Dhabi.
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The Emirati and Israeli flags fly overhead as Israeli President Isaac Herzog gives a speech at Expo 2020 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on January 31, 2022. (AP)
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has formally lodged complaints with "Israel" regarding the behavior of Ambassador Yossi Shelley, a former director-general of the Prime Minister’s Office, over at least three separate incidents involving misconduct and clashes with Emirati security personnel.
Israeli news outlet Ynet, reported on Wednesday that Shelley reportedly misbehaved on multiple occasions, raising concerns about his adherence to "diplomatic protocol in a country where security sensitivities are high".
According to Kan Bet Broadcasting, one incident occurred when Shelley grew angry after Emirati security guards requested he restrict his evening movements, reportedly shouting, "What, am I in prison?"
In another case, he allegedly allowed passengers to enter his diplomatic vehicle without undergoing prior security screening, a violation of local coordination procedures.
Channel 12 also reported that Shelley was observed at a bar in Dubai engaging in what was described as "conduct falling below expected ethical, moral, and personal standards," in which Shelley "crossed the boundaries of personal space."
"Shelley’s behavior was not acceptable and even harms our honor," the Gulf state reportedly told "Israel" through an intermediary, according to The Times of Israel.
While Shelley has denied the allegations, Kan Bet reported that he received a formal warning to improve his coordination with local security authorities. However, the Prime Minister’s Office declined to confirm the details of the incidents but stated that Shelley will remain in his position as ambassador.
Israeli cover-up attempt
Amid this diplomatic fiasco, reports are now surfacing claiming that the Israeli Foreign Ministry has ordered the evacuation of the majority of its diplomatic staff and their families from the United Arab Emirates, according to a report by the Ynet news portal.
The report alleges that this partial evacuation follows a travel warning issued by the Israeli National Security Council (NSC), which cited an increased risk of attacks.
It is being surmised that the Israeli Foreign Ministry is attempting to cover up what the Emirati government described as "unethical behavior and misconduct" under the pretext of "threat and danger."
Read next: Netanyahu allies fume over UAE's invitation to Lapid: Israeli media
UAE summons Shelly
It is worth noting that in May this year, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned "Israel’s" ambassador to formally protest what it calls "disgraceful actions and violations against Palestinians at Al-Aqsa Mosque and in the Muslim Quarter."
This move came in response to events that took place during the so-called Flag Day march the same month, when large crowds of Zionists marched through Al-Quds, shouting anti-Arab slogans and clashing with Palestinian shopkeepers.
Many also stormed al-Aqsa Mosque, led by extremist Police Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. The UAE also called on "Israel" to accept full responsibility and hold those involved accountable.
The #UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned "Israel’s" ambassador, Yossi Shelley, to formally protest what it calls “disgraceful actions and violations against Palestinians at Al-Aqsa Mosque and in the #Muslim Quarter.”
— Al Mayadeen English (@MayadeenEnglish) May 28, 2025
This move comes in response to events that took place… pic.twitter.com/lXSPR11euh
