The UAE has taken a strong stand against any attempts to displace Palestinians from Gaza, aligning itself with other Arab nations in rejecting such proposals. On Wednesday, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised the importance of protecting Palestinians’ rights and finding a comprehensive, long-term solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. This statement came after controversial comments by former US President Donald Trump, suggesting the US could take control of Gaza and relocate Palestinians to neighbouring countries.
Trump’s Proposal Stirs Regional Tensions
Donald Trump’s remarks during a press conference on Tuesday raised eyebrows across the Middle East. The former US President proposed that the US could take over the Gaza Strip and resettle Palestinians in countries like Jordan and Egypt, with potential military intervention if necessary. His suggestion of a long-term “ownership position” over Gaza has been met with outrage by regional leaders.
While Trump claimed that the plan would bring stability to the region, it has only sparked further anger and division. His comments were made after hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, where the two discussed regional peace and the ongoing tensions in Gaza.
Arab Nations United Against Palestinian Displacement
The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Arab states have all voiced their rejection of any effort to displace Palestinians from Gaza. The UAE’s Foreign Ministry stated that a lasting peace in the region can only be achieved through the creation of an independent Palestinian state, emphasising the importance of the two-state solution.
Similarly, Saudi Arabia issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter) reaffirming its commitment to the Palestinian cause. The Saudi Foreign Ministry made it clear that the Kingdom would not establish diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is established, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This contradicts earlier remarks by Netanyahu, who suggested that normalising relations with Saudi Arabia was imminent.
Global Leaders Weigh In on Gaza’s Future
Trump’s proposal has caused significant diplomatic friction in the region, with Jordan, Egypt, and Qatar all opposing the idea of resettling Palestinians outside of Gaza. King Abdullah II of Jordan and President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt have both reiterated their support for a Palestinian state and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the ceasefire in Gaza. They also called for a resolution based on the two-state solution.
Additionally, Qatar, which has played a key role in mediating the Gaza ceasefire, stated that it was too early to discuss the issue of Palestinian displacement, as the war’s outcome remains uncertain. Qatar’s foreign ministry representative Majed Al Ansari emphasised the deep trauma Palestinians would face if forced to leave their homeland, pointing out that it’s a sensitive issue requiring careful consideration.
The Unacceptable Idea of Displacement
Houthi spokespersons have also expressed their anger, with Mohammed Al Bukhaiti labelling Trump’s proposal as “American arrogance” and threatening that Yemen would stand in solidarity with any Arab country that rejects the plan. The Houthis have been actively involved in attacks against Israeli interests, framing their actions as support for Palestinians in Gaza.
Turkey has also been vocal in opposing any talk of displacing Palestinians. Hakan Fidan, Turkey’s Foreign Minister, condemned the suggestion, calling it a waste of time and unacceptable. According to Fidan, even entertaining the idea of expelling Palestinians from Gaza is “wrong” and could lead to further instability in the region.
The Role of the Two-State Solution
The two-state solution has long been considered the most viable path to peace in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia continue to support this approach, which calls for the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
For many Arab nations, the status of Jerusalem and the rights of Palestinians are non-negotiable. The UAE and Saudi Arabia have emphasised that regional stability and peace can only be achieved through a fair solution to the Israeli-Palestinian issue.
What’s Next for Gaza?
While the situation remains tense, the international community is still pushing for a comprehensive peace process that respects Palestinian rights and leads to long-term peace in the region. As the conflict in Gaza continues, there is growing concern about the potential for further displacement and humanitarian crises.
With Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas visiting Jordan and Egypt this week, it is clear that diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation are ongoing. King Abdullah II, Egyptian President El-Sisi, and other Arab leaders have stressed the need to maintain the ceasefire in Gaza, while also upholding the rights of Palestinians to live in their homeland.
Conclusion: The Future of Palestinian Rights and the Two-State Solution
The rejection of Palestinian displacement by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Arab nations signals a unified stance against efforts to undermine Palestinian rights. Trump’s controversial proposal has only heightened tensions in the region, with international leaders reaffirming their commitment to the two-state solution as the path to peace.
As discussions continue, the Palestinian cause remains central to regional politics, and any efforts to infringe upon Palestinians’ rights or displace them will face significant opposition. The focus now shifts to finding a serious political horizon that can bring about a lasting peace in Gaza and the wider region.
Relevant Links for Further Reading:
- UAE Foreign Ministry Statement on Palestinian Rights
- Saudi Arabia’s Position on the Palestinian State
- Trump’s Remarks on Gaza and Palestinian Displacement
Photo credit: Anadolu Ajansi
