Andorra Boosts Security for US, Israel, UAE Delegations Amid Middle East Tensions

Andorra has intensified police security for diplomatic delegations from the United States, Israel, and the United Arab Emirates during this weekend's Constitution Day celebrations, amid escalating conflict in the Middle East following last week's attack on Iran.

The heightened measures, requested by the three nations due to regional tensions, extend beyond their own security teams and include a major deployment from Andorra's special intervention unit, GIPA, potentially reinforced by additional officers. Israel's group is already in the country, the US delegation arrives today, and the UAE is in a comparable position. Police emphasize that such protections are standard for visits by US and Israeli representatives—recalling a large-scale operation for a recent Israeli football team—but the current requests call for even greater coverage, including 24-hour protection for some groups.

This security effort coincides with a broad police presence starting today for multiple music events, including the Snowrow festival and Maricongelada in Pas de la Casa, as well as the 33rd anniversary of the Constitution. No specific threats target Andorra itself, and officials have dismissed concerns from a recent Carnival incident in Encamp, which they have contextualized and plan to repeat during the visits. The three countries share aligned stances in the conflict, reducing risks of friction among them.

The delegations' presence aligns with the introduction of new diplomats around the holiday. The US ambassador is Benjamin León Jr., Israel's representative—now based in France due to strained ties with Spain—is Joshua L. Zarka, and the UAE's is Saleh Ahmad Alsuwaidi. Authorities from both police and delegations seek to prevent any disruptions amid global geopolitical strains.