UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone conversation regarding ceasefire efforts in Gaza after renewed violence led to significant casualties. The Emirati president advocated for humanitarian aid and a two-state solution, contrasting with a controversial proposal previously presented by Trump. Arab states favor an alternative reconstruction plan for Gaza, emphasizing local stability.
On March 18, the Israeli military resumed its offensive in Gaza, which ended a fragile two-month ceasefire. This escalation led to a significant loss of life, with nearly 700 fatalities recorded, primarily among women and children, as reported by Palestinian health officials. In response to these developments, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged in a phone discussion with U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on ceasefire efforts in the region.
During the conversation, President Al Nahyan emphasized the necessity of providing assistance to the residents of Gaza and expressed support for a two-state solution as a path towards peace. This dialogue comes amidst a backdrop where Trump’s earlier proposal for Gaza, which involved displacing Palestinians, faced widespread condemnation. In contrast, Arab states, including the UAE, have shown support for an Egyptian-led $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza, advocating for solutions that do not displace the local population.
Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE President, stated that any reconstruction plan for Gaza would require a clear commitment towards achieving a two-state solution. Since normalizing relations with Israel in 2020 through U.S.-brokered agreements, the UAE has maintained a proactive role in addressing the Middle Eastern conflict. As of now, Palestinian health authorities report that the ongoing Israeli military campaign has resulted in over 50,000 casualties since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, following an attack from Hamas militants.
In summary, President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE and President Donald Trump discussed vital efforts toward achieving a ceasefire in Gaza amidst renewed violence that has resulted in numerous casualties. The emphasis on humanitarian aid and a two-state solution highlights the ongoing complexities of the conflict. The conversation also reflects broader regional efforts, including considerable reconstruction plans geared towards stabilizing Gaza without the displacement of its inhabitants.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
