India, May 12 -- Israel deployed Iron Dome anti-missile batteries and personnel to the United Arab Emirates during the ongoing Iran conflict to help defend the Gulf nation, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said on Tuesday.

Huckabee made the remarks while speaking at an event in Tel Aviv, highlighting the growing strategic and defence ties between Israel and the UAE.

"I'd like to say a word of appreciation for United Arab Emirates, the first Abraham Accord member," Huckabee said during the Tel Aviv Conference. "Just look at the benefits. Israel just sent them Iron Dome batteries and personnel to help operate them."

The statement marks a rare public acknowledgment of direct Israeli military assistance to the UAE amid heightened tens...