UAE Stresses Need to Intensify Efforts to Alleviate Gaza Suffering
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, has reiterated the UAE’s stance on achieving stability and peace in the region through a sustainable and just solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Al Hashimy emphasized that a political path leading to a two-state solution, establishing an independent Palestinian State existing in security and peace alongside the State of Israel, is essential. This vision is in line with bilateral agreements and international law.
Addressing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, Al Hashimy underscored the importance of enhancing humanitarian responses. She highlighted the UAE’s historic commitment to the Palestinians, noting that the country continues to provide urgent humanitarian assistance and supplies to Gaza as per the directives of its leadership. “The UAE remains steadfastly committed to extending a helping hand to the Palestinians and implementing humanitarian relief initiatives via land, sea, or air routes,” she stated.
In the past ten months alone, the UAE has dispatched 39,756 tonnes of urgent supplies to the Gaza Strip through 8 ships, 1,271 trucks, and 337 flights. Al Hashimy reaffirmed that the UAE will continue to work extensively with the UN and international partners to support efforts aiming to alleviate humanitarian suffering.
Furthermore, Al Hashimy stressed that a return to the status quo before 7th October 2023 will not achieve the desired sustainable peace for Palestinians, Israelis, and the broader international community. The UAE believes that the first step to peace and security in the Palestinian Territory and the region is through an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages and detainees.
Al Hashimy proposed the deployment of a temporary international mission in Gaza, invited by the Palestinian government, to consolidate peace and security and end humanitarian suffering. She advocated for a credible, independent Prime Minister to lead this government, ensuring transparent operations aligned with global standards. This government must commit to necessary reforms, addressing the challenges faced by Palestinians, fulfilling their legitimate aspirations for independence and statehood, achieving growth and security, and taking responsibility for rebuilding Gaza.
The international mission would be tasked with efficiently responding to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, establishing law and order, laying the groundwork for governance, and uniting Gaza and the West Bank under a single, legitimate Palestinian Authority. Al Hashimy emphasized that Israel, as the occupying power, must adhere to international law and human rights principles. She highlighted the need to lift the blockade on Gaza, allow the legitimate Palestinian Authority to fulfill its responsibilities, halt settlement construction, and cease violence in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Al Hashimy called for intensified efforts by regional and international partners and coordinated collective action to achieve a peaceful and prosperous future for Israelis, Palestinians, and all nations in the region. She acknowledged the significant role of the United States in these endeavors, including rebuilding Gaza and promoting peace, alongside regional countries. “An American commitment to achieving the two-state solution and Palestinian reforms is critical for the success of the international mission,” she added.
In conclusion, Al Hashimy reaffirmed the UAE’s ongoing humanitarian support for the Palestinian people and its readiness to actively contribute to a sustainable resolution of the conflict in partnership with the regional and international community. “Establishing peace benefits everyone on a broader scale, enhancing the future of the entire Middle East and the global community,” she asserted.
