The United Arab Emirates military carried out two air strikes against Islamist soldiers in Libya, using Egypt as a base, U.S. officials confirmed.

According to reports, it was a joint effort between UAE and Egypt. The UAE provided the warplanes and crew, while Cairo allowed the use of its air bases.

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The first attack a week ago targeted Islamist-controlled Tripoli, where six people died.

The second one, which took place last Saturday south of Tripoli, targeted military vehicles, rocket launchers and a warehouse, according to reports.

Experts believed that the bombing attacks held in the span of a week were aimed at preventing the Islamist force to seize the Tripoli airport. However, they did not succeed.

Both the UAE and Egypt did not acknowledge any part in the bombing. They also did not say if they informed the United States of the planned attacks.

While some speculated that the U.S. knew about the planned air strikes, officials denied having any part in the attacks or providing support to UAE or Egypt.

In fact, U.S. and European countries such as France, Italy, Britain and Germany condemned activities that could worsen the violence in Libya in a statement.

They added that they uphold a democratic transition in Libya.

Experts believe that the UAE's attack was backed by its perception of the Islamist group as a serious threat. Saudi Arabia and Egypt share the same views.

According to reports, UAE and Saudi Arabia's leaders expressed concerns that they cannot count on U.S. anymore with its engagement in the conflicts of Iran and Syria.

Thus, the attacks highlight that U.S. allies in the past are willing to act without its support, reports said.

They even demonstrated UAE's preparedness for air battle. UAE acquired U.S. F-16 fighter jets, transport aircraft, and bombs to augment its military power over the years.

It also had training with U.S. military in the past. In addition, UAE pilots took part in the NATO-led war in Libya in 2011.

TagsUnited Arab Emirates, Egypt, Cairo, Libya, Islamist soldiers, U.S.