The UAE has officially rejected Trump’s plan to displace Palestinians from Gaza, affirming its support for their rights. President Nahyan linked any reconstruction efforts in Gaza to a comprehensive peace initiative based on the two-state solution. The meeting with Secretary Rubio highlighted the UAE’s strategic partnership with the U.S. and addressed ongoing regional challenges.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) firmly rejected the plan proposed by former President Donald Trump to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza. His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, communicated this position to visiting U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his four-day Middle Eastern tour. The UAE’s state media reported that the president reaffirmed the nation’s steadfast opposition to any actions aimed at displacing the Palestinian populace from their homeland.
During the meeting in Abu Dhabi, President Nahyan emphasized the necessity of linking any reconstruction initiatives in Gaza to a broader framework that promotes a comprehensive and enduring peace based on the two-state solution. This approach, he argued, is essential for ensuring long-term stability in the region. Marco Rubio’s tour is reported to also aim at fostering regional cooperation and advancing the ongoing ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
Despite its history of normalizing relations with Israel, the UAE’s recent stance represents a significant departure from expectations, especially given its role in agreements on investment, tourism, and security with Israel. The UAE inaugurated its embassy in Tel Aviv in 2021, marking an important development in Arab-Israeli relations. However, this recent declaration against displacement reflects the UAE’s broader commitment to Palestinian rights.
With nearly 2.3 million individuals in Gaza rendered homeless because of extensive military operations over the past 16 months, the UAE’s position is further weighted. Reports from the United Nations indicate that the majority of housing in Gaza has suffered damage or destruction, necessitating significant international aid and reconstruction efforts. President Nahyan’s resistance to Trump’s proposals for transforming Gaza into a tourism hotspot will be discussed in upcoming meetings among leaders from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, and Qatar.
Secretary Bruce of the U.S. State Department highlighted how the meeting reaffirmed the robust nature of the strategic partnership between the U.S. and the UAE. They discussed ongoing challenges in Gaza and the importance of advancing stability in surrounding regions. The collaboration aims to address various threats to regional stability, including activities impacting freedom of navigation in critical waterways.
In conclusion, the UAE’s rejection of Trump’s plan for the forced displacement of Palestinians underscores its commitment to supporting Palestinian rights amid ongoing regional instability. The recent meeting between President Nahyan and Secretary Rubio highlighted the need for a comprehensive peace framework while addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UAE’s stance could play a significant role in shaping future discussions on peace and reconstruction efforts in the region.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
