Turkey arrests three suspected Emirati agents

Turkish authorities have apprehended three individuals accused of espionage activities on behalf of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) intelligence service, according to a statement released by the Istanbul Chief Prosecutor’s office on Tuesday. The suspects allegedly utilized a Turkish mobile phone number to gather sensitive personal information on key public officials in Turkey, including executives in the defense sector and representatives of foreign nations. The prosecutor’s office revealed that the suspects obtained a mobile phone line from a Turkish GSM operator, which was subsequently transported to the UAE for use by intelligence operatives. During a coordinated operation, three suspects were arrested, while a fourth individual remains at large, prompting an international arrest warrant. This incident occurs against the backdrop of renewed tensions between Turkey and the UAE, particularly over their divergent stances on the Sudan conflict. While the UAE supports the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, Turkey has strengthened its ties with the Sudanese army. Despite these challenges, Turkish officials emphasize that their relationship with the UAE remains cordial, with both nations agreeing to compartmentalize disputes to avoid further escalation. This development follows a series of similar arrests in Turkey targeting individuals allegedly linked to foreign intelligence agencies, including those of Israel, Russia, and Iran.