Israel and the United Arab Emirates are growing closer because of the Middle East war, a senior Israeli official tells AFP, citing increased military cooperation and opportunities to increase trade and business ties.

Two Israeli delegations will arrive next week, the Gulf-based official says, including a transport ministry team that will discuss a trade corridor linking India, the Middle East and Europe.

“This presents an opportunity to enhance ties. We believe in this market … We believe people should come. There’s a lot of opportunity for cooperation,” the Israeli official adds.