The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has persistently championed peace and a diplomatic resolution to the enduring Palestinian crisis. In the face of war and its catastrophic consequences, the UAE has remained steadfast in its commitment to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people. This article sheds light on the UAE’s multifaceted diplomatic efforts within the United Nations Security Council to address this critical issue.
The UAE has a clear and consistent position on promoting peace in the region, emphasizing that armed conflicts and wars invariably result in humanitarian crises, impacting civilians the most. The UAE’s representative to the United Nations has articulated this stance, underscoring the far-reaching implications of prolonged strife for the entire region and its diverse communities.
Since the outbreak of the most recent conflict in Gaza on October 7th, the UAE has mobilized its diplomatic channels and resources, engaging in intensive efforts at various levels and directions to cease the violence and provide relief to the Palestinian people.
Immediate Call for Ceasefire:
Lana Nusseibeh, the UAE’s Permanent Representative to the UN Security Council, has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. She highlighted the alarming fact that 70% of the casualties in Gaza are women and children, pointing out that they are not affiliated with Hamas. Nusseibeh also addressed the impractical demands to evacuate Al-Quds Hospital, given that it currently provides shelter to 11,000 displaced individuals. She emphasized the perilous situation for all Gaza residents and the hostages held by Hamas.
The UAE’s representative did not overlook the suffering of the residents in the West Bank, pointing out the escalated attacks by Israeli settlers and the resulting displacement of numerous Palestinian families.
The UAE has strongly condemned Israel’s ground operations in Gaza, expressing grave concern over the military escalation and the deepening humanitarian crisis. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged for an immediate ceasefire, emphasizing the paramount importance of protecting civilians, preventing the targeting of civilian infrastructures, and upholding international humanitarian law and human rights treaties.
In its extended efforts to achieve a ceasefire, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored the importance of a recent UN General Assembly resolution, which calls for an immediate humanitarian truce and cessation of hostilities in Gaza. The UAE is utilizing this resolution to instigate action within the UN Security Council, capitalizing on its unique position as the only Arab member of the Council for the 2022-2023 term.
The UAE has been tirelessly working to de-escalate the situation, protect civilians, provide humanitarian aid, and establish a foundation for comprehensive peace. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has affirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to achieving an immediate ceasefire, ensuring civilian protection, and securing safe humanitarian corridors to assist the Gaza Strip, all while seeking avenues for lasting peace and stability in the region.
The UAE’s proactive and multifaceted diplomatic efforts within the UN Security Council underscore its commitment to peace, humanitarian aid, and a diplomatic resolution to the Palestinian crisis. The country continues to leverage its unique position and international partnerships to advocate for the protection of civilians, the cessation of hostilities, and the establishment of lasting peace in the region.
