What happened
White House envoy Steve Witkoff met last weekend in Sardinia with UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, two sources familiar with the matter said.
The meeting, which the White House did not publicly announce and which has only now been reported, covered next steps on Iran and other topics, according to the sources.
The talks take place as the Trump administration works to reopen the Strait of Hormuz while enforcing an economic blockade on Iran, with the UAE described as a key partner in that effort.
Why it matters
The unannounced nature of the talks highlights how sensitive the Iran file remains, even for close Gulf allies involved in Washington's pressure campaign.
TBZ's influence inside the UAE, including his oversight of investment and technology operations, suggests the conversation may reach beyond immediate military or diplomatic moves into economic levers shaping the crisis.
Key facts
Witkoff met Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Sardinia last weekend.
The meeting discussed next steps regarding Iran and other topics.
The White House has not responded to a request for comment.
What to watch next
Whether Washington or Abu Dhabi will publicly acknowledge the meeting or announce any concrete follow-up actions.
How this closed-door dialogue influences the administration's ongoing push to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and sustain economic pressure on Iran.