UAE President and Trump Engage in Ceasefire Discussions Amid Gaza Conflict
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed ceasefire initiatives in Gaza amid renewed violence. The UAE supports humanitarian aid and a two-state solution while opposing Trump’s displacement proposal. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over 50,000 fatalities reported.
On Tuesday, the United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a phone conversation focused on efforts to establish a ceasefire in Gaza. This discussion takes place amidst Israel’s renewed military operations in the region, which began on March 18. Since the resumption of conflict, nearly 700 individuals, predominantly women and children, have been reported killed according to Palestinian health officials.
During the call, President bin Zayed advocated for increased humanitarian assistance for Gaza residents and emphasized the importance of supporting the two-state solution. Earlier in February, President Trump introduced his plan for Gaza, which included controversial elements such as the displacement of Palestinians in favor of developing a Middle Eastern “Riviera,” a proposal that has faced international criticism.
In contrast, Arab nations, including the UAE, have backed an Egyptian reconstruction plan for Gaza that aims to avoid displacing Palestinians and has an estimated cost of $53 billion. While WAM’s report on the conversation did not specify whether the leaders discussed these contrasting plans, it underscores the complexities surrounding the ceasefire efforts.
Anwar Gargash, the UAE’s diplomatic advisor, remarked on February 26 that any reconstruction initiative for Gaza necessitates a definitive path towards a two-state solution for the Palestine-Israel conflict. Notably, the UAE established normalized relations with Israel in 2020 under U.S.-brokered agreements during Trump’s administration.
Currently, Palestinian health authorities report that Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza has resulted in over 50,000 fatalities. This renewed conflict commenced on October 7, 2023, following incursions by Hamas militants, which Israel claims resulted in the deaths of more than 1,200 individuals, primarily civilians, and the capture of approximately 250 people in Gaza.
The recent discussions between UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and U.S. President Donald Trump highlight ongoing efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza amid escalating violence. The situation remains dire, with significant casualties reported. Continued advocacy for humanitarian assistance and a two-state solution is critical, especially as various reconstruction plans are proposed by regional leaders.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
