UAE says we are not ready to support any post-war plan for Gaza without the establishment of the State of Palestine
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has stated that it will not back any post-war reconstruction or diplomatic plans for Gaza unless these initiatives include a clear path toward the establishment of an independent State of Palestine. The announcement, which follows weeks of international discussions regarding the situation in Gaza, highlights the UAE's firm stance on the two-state solution.
In a statement released on Friday, the UAE government emphasized that resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains central to lasting peace in the region. They made it clear that while humanitarian aid and immediate relief efforts are a priority, long-term political support will hinge on serious international efforts toward Palestinian statehood.
"The future of Gaza and the wider region cannot be secured without addressing the root causes of this conflict, and that begins with the full recognition of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination," the statement read.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in devastating consequences for both Palestinian and Israeli civilians. The international community has scrambled to find diplomatic solutions, but the situation remains tense. The UAE’s position is seen as a significant diplomatic move, given its normalization of relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords in 2020.
Humanitarian Focus
UAE officials have also called for an immediate ceasefire and access for humanitarian aid, pointing out the dire conditions on the ground in Gaza. The country has pledged significant financial support for rebuilding efforts but insists that any reconstruction plans must come with political reforms.
“Our priority is to provide urgent assistance to those affected by the conflict,” the statement continued, “but we will not engage in long-term efforts without a commitment to the establishment of a viable and sovereign Palestinian state.”
International Response
The UAE's position comes amid broader international debates about how to manage post-conflict recovery in Gaza. Several Western nations, including the United States and members of the European Union, have expressed similar sentiments, though direct plans for statehood remain a contentious topic. Analysts believe the UAE’s firm stance could influence other Arab nations’ approaches to the issue.
The UAE's call for Palestinian statehood adds another dimension to the already complex geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. How the international community responds, particularly Israel and its allies, will likely determine the next steps in both humanitarian and diplomatic arenas.