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News Topical, Digital Desk : Arab countries continued their attack on Israel at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) regarding the Gaza conflict. Several countries boycotted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech in protest. However, unlike other Arab countries, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) not only listened to Netanyahu's speech but also met with him.
As the Palestinian death toll rises, Abu Dhabi has decided to deepen its closeness to Israel, rather than protest. It met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu behind closed doors and refused to accompany Arab diplomats during his speech.
UAE PM meets Netanyahu
For a country that once claimed to champion Arab solidarity, the UAE's shift in stance signals a deliberate prioritization of political vision and strategic alliances over regional unity and moral clarity.
According to an official statement, the UAE said the meeting was aimed at "stressing the urgent need to end the war in Gaza and save civilian lives." The two leaders also reportedly discussed de-escalating regional tensions and humanitarian access.
UAE did not boycott Netanyahu's speech
The most talked-about event occurred inside the UN General Assembly Hall. While Netanyahu was addressing world leaders, several Arab delegates, including those from Jordan, Qatar, and Algeria, decided to walk out in protest. However, diplomats from the United Arab Emirates remained inside the General Assembly Hall and did not join the demonstration.
UAE's decision sparked a new debate in Arab countries
The UAE's decision has sparked debate across the Arab world. While many see it as a continuation of Abu Dhabi's commitment to negotiations under the Abraham Accords, others see it as contrary to, rather than in sync with, collective Arab sentiment in the wake of mounting civilian casualties in Gaza.
The move reflects an attempt by the UAE to maintain a delicate diplomatic balance, reiterating support for the two-state solution and humanitarian diplomacy while maintaining relations with Israel.
Not distancing from Israel, but trying to connect
As the war in Gaza continues, the UAE's strategy appears to be one of engagement, not isolation. Perhaps hoping that even in times of crisis, talking to all parties is more effective than walking out of the meeting.
Meeting to end the war in Gaza
The UAE Foreign Ministry said in an official post that Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed “stressed the urgent need to end the war in Gaza, reach a lasting and durable ceasefire, and prevent further casualties and put an end to the tragic conditions faced by civilians.” The post also said he "affirmed the UAE's support for all efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution".
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