UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and U.S. President Donald Trump held discussions regarding efforts for a ceasefire in Gaza amid renewed military conflict. The dialogue addressed humanitarian aid and support for a two-state solution. Trump’s controversial plan for Gaza faced criticism while Arab states endorsed an alternative reconstruction strategy.
On March 18, 2023, fighting resumed in Gaza, disrupting a two-month ceasefire and resulting in approximately 700 casualties, primarily among women and children, according to Palestinian health officials. Amidst this escalation, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged in a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on ceasefire efforts and humanitarian aid for Gaza residents, as reported by Emirati state news agency WAM.
During the recent dialogue, President Al Nahyan emphasized the necessity of extending aid to the affected populace in Gaza and reiterated support for a two-state solution. This discussion unfolds against the backdrop of Trump’s earlier plan for Gaza, which received considerable global criticism for suggesting the displacement of Palestinians.
Within the context of these developments, Arab nations, including the UAE, have rallied around an Egyptian reconstruction initiative aimed at Gaza, estimated to cost $53 billion and intentionally designed to prevent the displacement of individuals.
Anwar Gargash, a prominent diplomatic advisor to the UAE president, stated on February 26 that any reconstruction efforts must hinge upon establishing a clear pathway toward a two-state solution. Notably, the UAE normalized relations with Israel in 2020, a move brokered by Trump.
Palestinian authorities report that Israel’s renewed military actions in Gaza have led to a staggering death toll, exceeding 50,000 individuals since the conflict ignited on October 7, 2023. This escalation followed an incursion by Hamas militants, leading to significant civilian casualties and the kidnapping of approximately 250 individuals into Gaza.
In summary, the conversation between UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and U.S. President Donald Trump highlights ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza while addressing humanitarian needs. The dialogue underscores support for a two-state solution amidst a backdrop of significant casualties resulting from renewed military actions. Moreover, the emphasis on alternatives for Gaza reconstruction reflects a broader regional commitment to avoid further displacement of Palestinians.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
