The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially denounced Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement about “inviting the state to participate in civil administration of Gaza,” in statements published by the UAE foreign minister on social media platform X.
In a strong rebuke, the UAE emphasized that Netanyahu lacks any legitimate authority to propose such an arrangement. The UAE firmly rejects any plan that might serve to legitimize the Israeli presence in Gaza.
Furthermore, the UAE reiterated that it stands ready to support a future Palestinian government. This support is contingent on setting up a government that meets the aspirations of the Palestinian people and has the necessary integrity, competence, and independence.
Earlier this month, the top UAE diplomat met with the main Israeli opposition leader as the war in Gaza amplifies with the threat of a Rafah invasion looming.
Sheikh Abdullah and Lapid discussed the “worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip,” the statement from the UAE government said.
The UAE minister reportedly cited the importance of finding a political solution to the seven-month-long crisis and making way for a two-state solution that would see an independent Palestinian state.
Sheikh Abdullah also discussed the importance of a ceasefire and avoiding an expansion of the conflict region-wide. The Emirati official reiterated the importance of providing humanitarian aid to the displaced and injured Palestinians.
The UAE’s stance highlights its commitment to upholding the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people, rejecting any actions that could undermine their legitimate claims and efforts towards self-governance.
The recent Gaza War, which began on October 7, 2023, has been marked by extreme violence and is considered one of the deadliest conflicts of the 21st century. The war started when Hamas launched a coordinated attack on Israel, exploiting a Jewish holiday when many Israeli soldiers were on leave, leading to a significant and sudden escalation in violence. This attack was characterized by a barrage of rockets targeting Tel Aviv and other locations, catching the Israeli defense forces off-guard
The conflict has resulted in catastrophic humanitarian consequences for Gaza’s civilian population. The violence has led to thousands of deaths and injuries, with significant destruction of infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and residential buildings. Reports indicate that essential services like healthcare have been overwhelmed, with a severe shortage of medical facilities capable of handling trauma and emergency cases
