The UAE rejected Trump’s plan to displace Palestinians, asserting the importance of their presence in Gaza. President Nahyan emphasized linking reconstruction efforts to long-term peace based on a two-state solution. His stance is noteworthy given the UAE’s previous normalization of relations with Israel. Upcoming discussions among Arab leaders reflect ongoing challenges in the region.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) firmly rejected former President Donald Trump’s proposal regarding the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. This stance was communicated by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Abu Dhabi. According to state media reports, President Nahyan emphasized the necessity of safeguarding the rights of the Palestinian people and maintaining their presence on their homeland.
The discussions took place as part of Secretary Rubio’s tour of the Middle East, which is focusing on enhancing regional cooperation, securing the release of American hostages, and advancing the Gaza ceasefire. President Nahyan stated the importance of linking reconstruction efforts in Gaza with a pathway toward achieving a comprehensive, enduring peace, centered on the two-state solution, to foster stability in the area.
The UAE’s position is particularly noteworthy given its historical context; it was the first Gulf nation to normalize relations with Israel during the Trump administration, leading to bilateral agreements on diverse sectors including security and tourism. Furthermore, the UAE has played a crucial role in financing Gaza’s reconstruction efforts following the ongoing conflict, which has left nearly 2.3 million people homeless as reported by the United Nations.
The UAE’s rejection of the displacement plan significantly undermines Trump’s vision of transforming Gaza into a “Riviera of the Middle East.” This proposal, which implicates the relocation of Palestinians to neighboring Egypt and Jordan, has invoked widespread criticism and accusations of ethnic cleansing across the globe. Consequently, leaders from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, and Qatar are anticipated to address these issues at an upcoming summit in Riyadh.
In the meeting context, Secretary Bruce acknowledged the strength of the U.S.-UAE strategic partnership, emphasizing mutual interests in economic ties, defense cooperation, and regional stability. Additionally, the discussions covered several challenges, including those in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, as well as threats to maritime freedom in the Red Sea.
In conclusion, the UAE has clearly articulated its rejection of Trump’s plan to displace Palestinians from Gaza, reiterating its commitment to supporting their rights. This development highlights the complex dynamics in Middle Eastern politics, particularly in relation to peace efforts and regional cooperation. The UAE’s influential role in the reconstruction of Gaza and its strategic alliances underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving lasting peace in the region.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
