The United Arab Emirates has withdrawn from a United States-led maritime coalition after an extensive evaluation of its security needs.

“As a result of our ongoing evaluation of effective security cooperation with all partners, two months ago, the UAE withdrew its participation in the Combined Maritime Forces,” its Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday in a statement quoted by state news agency.

The UAE also said it was committed to dialogue and diplomatic engagement to advance regional security and stability as well as ensuring navigation safety near its shores in accordance with international law.

The decision marks a pivotal moment in the region’s geopolitical landscape, altering the dynamics of international cooperation in maritime security.

The 34-nation task force headquartered at the US naval base in Bahrain was formed to counter terrorism and piracy in the Red Sea and Gulf areas.

The region contains some of the world’s most important shipping routes, and since 2019, there have been a series of attacks on vessels at times of tension between the US and Iran.

The UAE with its strategic position along vital maritime trade routes had been an active participant in the US-led coalition.