The UAE is in talks with Israel and the US regarding postwar Gaza but insists on meeting specific conditions before participating, including reforms in the Palestinian Authority and commitment from Israel to the two-state solution. Reports also suggest discussions on utilizing private military contractors for peacekeeping.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has engaged in discussions with both Israel and the United States regarding a prospective role in the reconstruction efforts of postwar Gaza. However, an official from the UAE has stated that the essential conditions for their participation have not yet been met. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suggested that the UAE, along with Saudi Arabia and others, could serve as important partners to govern Gaza following the conflict. Nevertheless, the UAE has previously expressed its intention to avoid any arrangements that would support the Israeli military presence within the region.
Despite numerous informal dialogues, alignment with the UAE’s prerequisites for involvement in Gaza’s postwar endeavor remains unattained. Among these preconditions are a formal request from a “new, credible, independent” Palestinian Authority (PA) prime minister, a genuine reform process within the PA, Israel’s explicit commitment to the two-state solution, and a definitive leadership role by the United States. The UAE has consistently promoted the need for reform within the PA, often noted for its corruption issues, and has advocated for leadership changes.
Israeli officials have openly dismissed the possibility of the PA playing a role in Gaza’s postconflict governance. Furthermore, reports indicate that UAE officials have proposed utilizing private military contractors as part of a peacekeeping initiative in Gaza; however, this proposal was not confirmed by the UAE official who spoke to CNN. It is essential to consider the UAE’s normalization of relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords in 2020, which has allowed for continued diplomatic engagement despite the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The dialogue surrounding the UAE’s potential role in Gaza is set against a backdrop of complex geopolitical relationships in the Middle East, particularly following the normalization of UAE-Israel relations through the Abraham Accords. The Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank, faces significant challenges, including corruption and leadership issues, leading to widespread calls for reform. The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict complicates the situation further, with varying opinions on governance and peacebuilding efforts in postwar scenarios.
In summary, while the UAE has expressed willingness to contribute to postwar reconstruction efforts in Gaza, its involvement is contingent upon multiple unmet conditions, emphasizing the need for credible Palestinian leadership and a clear commitment to the two-state solution from Israel. As discussions proceed, the situation remains fluid, warranting close observation of diplomatic developments and regional responses.
Original Source: www.wral.com
