Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, engaged in discussions with Gideon Sa’ar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel, on January 7 in Abu Dhabi. The meeting centered on the escalating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and efforts to address it.
During the discussions, Sheikh Abdullah emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between the UAE and Israel. Moreover, the dialogue explored recent developments in the region, highlighting the need for coordinated regional and international initiatives to achieve a lasting ceasefire.
Sheikh Abdullah stressed the urgency of advancing a credible political framework to resume negotiations aimed at achieving comprehensive peace. He underscored that such efforts would foster stability, ensure sustainable security in the region, and help de-escalate the ongoing violence.
Furthermore, the UAE foreign minister called for intensified efforts to reach a permanent ceasefire and prevent the conflict’s expansion. He also highlighted the importance of ensuring the unhindered flow of humanitarian aid to those in need.
Acknowledging the unprecedented tension and instability in the Middle East, Sheikh Abdullah urged enhanced international collaboration. This is essential to counter extremism and promote peace, prosperity, and development for the region’s people. Additionally, he reiterated the UAE’s steadfast support for mediation efforts led by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. These efforts aim to facilitate a prisoner exchange agreement, paving the way for a sustainable ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
Sheikh Abdullah reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and its longstanding solidarity with their cause. He assured that the UAE would continue to provide humanitarian assistance and support initiatives benefiting the Gaza population.
Additionally, Sheikh Abdullah called for global efforts to combat extremism, hatred, and racism while fostering tolerance, coexistence, and human fraternity among nations. He emphasized that building peace is key to ensuring long-term stability, security, and development in the region.
The meeting was attended by senior UAE officials, including Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs; Saeed Mubarak Al Hajeri, Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs; and Mohamed Mahmoud Al Khaja, UAE Ambassador to Israel.
