Sa’ar met with his Emirati counterpart, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at a palace in Abu Dhabi, just hours after Reuters reported on behind-the-scenes discussions between the UAE, the United States, and other countries regarding the future governance of Gaza. The two ministers are expected to focus their discussions on "regional developments and bilateral relations," with particular attention to the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and efforts to secure a stable ceasefire.
In a statement confirming the visit, Sa’ar’s office noted that the trip was made at the invitation of Sheikh Abdullah and emphasized that the talks would center on the situation in Gaza and the strengthening of ties between Israel and the UAE. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs similarly stated that the meeting would address “regional developments,” highlighting Gaza's humanitarian situation as a key issue.
The Reuters report sheds light on ongoing behind-the-scenes talks that suggest the UAE, along with the U.S. and other nations, is exploring the possibility of assuming a temporary governance role in Gaza. The aim would be to oversee administrative, security, and reconstruction efforts until a reformed Palestinian Authority could take control.
While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has opposed such plans, the UAE's peace agreement with Israel gives it some leverage over the Israeli government. However, sources note that neither Israel nor the international community has yet put forward a clear vision for Gaza's future. The discussions in Abu Dhabi are still in the early stages, and no formal proposals or frameworks have been agreed upon.
The UAE's vision includes strengthening the Palestinian Authority, with the long-term goal of establishing a Palestinian state that encompasses the West Bank and East Jerusalem—a scenario that Netanyahu is unlikely to support. A senior Emirati official emphasized that any involvement in a post-war Gaza plan would depend on conditions surrounding Palestinian statehood. “The UAE will not join any initiative that does not include substantial reforms to the Palestinian Authority, its empowerment, and a credible roadmap toward a Palestinian state,” the official said, stressing that these elements are critical for any successful post-war plan.
As discussions continue, the path forward for Gaza’s governance and long-term stability remains uncertain, with complex challenges ahead in finding a sustainable solution for the region.
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