The UAE has rejected Trump’s plan to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza, affirming its commitment to Palestinian rights during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. President Nahyan emphasized the need for a two-state solution linked to Gaza’s reconstruction. This stance is significant given the UAE’s previous normalization of relations with Israel. The country continues to play a crucial role in humanitarian efforts in Gaza, which is currently facing a severe housing crisis.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has formally opposed a proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza. During a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, reiterated the nation’s commitment to rejecting any plans aimed at displacing the Palestinian population from their homeland, as reported by the Emirati news agency WAM.
This diplomatic exchange occurred amid Rubio’s four-day tour of the Middle East, which emphasized alliances, the release of American captives, and the future of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. President Nahyan articulated the necessity of connecting Gaza’s reconstruction efforts to a broader strategy leading to a lasting peace, anchored in the two-state solution framework, which is vital for regional stability.
The UAE’s declaration stands out, given its historic normalization of relations with Israel under the Trump administration, which included various bilateral agreements focused on trade and security. Notably, the UAE also opened its embassy in Tel Aviv in 2021, making its current stance surprising to analysts and observers.
The UAE has been an important contributor to reconstruction efforts in Gaza, especially as the humanitarian crisis escalates. Approximately 2.3 million individuals are now homeless due to the ongoing conflict, with the United Nations reporting that nearly all housing structures in Gaza have suffered significant damage or destruction.
Furthermore, President Nahyan’s opposition complicates Trump’s vision of transforming Gaza into a prosperous region while relocating Palestinians, a plan that has faced accusations of promoting ethnic cleansing. Discussions among leaders from various Arab nations, including Egypt and Saudi Arabia, are set to take place regarding this proposal as they prepare for an emergency summit in Cairo.
In a statement summarizing Rubio’s engagement with President Nahyan, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tami Bruce highlighted the meeting as reinforcing the strategic partnership between the U.S. and the UAE. They also addressed persisting challenges in Gaza, alongside broader regional issues, emphasizing cooperation on security and stability in the Middle East.
In summary, the United Arab Emirates has unequivocally rejected Trump’s proposition to displace Palestinians from Gaza, emphasizing their commitment to supporting Palestinian rights and a two-state solution. This stance comes against the backdrop of a recent meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, highlighting the UAE’s ongoing role in humanitarian efforts and regional diplomacy. The UAE’s position may influence upcoming discussions among Arab leaders regarding Gaza’s future and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
