An Iranian delegation traveled to Abu Dhabi on August 11 for quiet talks with Emirati officials, telling the UAE that Tehran wanted to reduce tensions and improve relations following the attacks during the war, Axios reports.

Iran also asked the UAE for help obtaining food and medicine and urged Abu Dhabi not to cooperate with U.S. sanctions, a request Emirati officials immediately rejected. Days later, the IRGC stepped up attacks on tankers belonging to the UAE’s national oil company as they attempted to cross the Strait of Hormuz, angering Emirati officials and leading the UAE to suspend all business with Iran.