UAE condemns Netanyahu’s remarks suggesting possible involvement in Gaza’s civil administration

The tension between Israel and Gaza continues to escalate as the UAE rejects any involvement in a potential civil administration in Gaza, following comments made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In a statement on Friday, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the UAE, denounced Netanyahu’s recent remarks suggesting that Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE, could participate in a civil administration of the Palestinian territory.

“The United Arab Emirates denounces the statements of the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, about calling on the state to participate in the civil administration of the Gaza Strip, which is under Israeli occupation,” Sheikh Abdullah said.

He emphasized that Israel does not have the authority to make such a decision and that the UAE refuses to be part of any plan that would provide cover for the Israeli presence in Gaza.

Netanyahu made these comments during an interview with American talk show host Dr. Phil McGraw, where he discussed the potential future of Gaza after the defeat of Hamas.

“We probably will have to have some kind of civilian government, some civil administration by Gazans that are not committed to our destruction, possibly with the aid of the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and other countries that want to see stability and peace,” Netanyahu stated.

However, Sheikh Abdullah reiterated that the UAE believes the future of Gaza should be determined by its people, and that the country is prepared to support a Palestinian government that meets the aspirations of the Palestinian people.

Despite Netanyahu’s hopes for UAE involvement, UN expert Nickolay Mladenov expressed skepticism about the likelihood of such a scenario.

“Knowing the region, I cannot see any circumstances under which the UAE and perhaps others would agree to join an interim Gaza civilian administration at Israel’s request,” Mladenov said. He emphasized that any involvement would need to be upon the legitimate invitation of the Palestinian Authority and would require a competent, non-factional government committed to rebuilding Gaza.

As tensions continue to rise in the region, the international community closely watches the developments between Israel and Gaza. The situation remains fluid, with the UAE firmly stating its position on the matter and emphasizing the importance of Palestinian self-determination in shaping the future of Gaza.

Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving situation as it unfolds.