UAE Foreign Minister Urges End to Gaza War in Meeting with Netanyahu

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has called for an urgent end to the war in Gaza during a meeting between UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in New York. The discussion took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. This marks the first high-level meeting between Netanyahu and a senior Arab official since Israel’s attack on Hamas leaders in Qatar on September 9, 2025, which the UAE strongly condemned.

UAE’s Call for Peace

Sheikh Abdullah emphasized the need for immediate efforts to stop the ongoing violence in Gaza. According to the UAE state news agency WAM, he reaffirmed the country’s commitment to supporting all initiatives aimed at achieving a comprehensive peace. The goal, he said, should be a solution that meets the needs and aspirations of both Palestinians and Israelis.

The UAE has historically played an important diplomatic role in the region and has often worked to mediate conflicts. Sheikh Abdullah’s meeting with Netanyahu underlines Abu Dhabi’s willingness to use its influence to seek a peaceful resolution.

Background: Abraham Accords

The UAE has maintained close economic and security ties with Israel since signing the Abraham Accords in 2020. These agreements, brokered by then-U.S. President Donald Trump, normalized relations between Israel and several Arab countries, including the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco. The Accords allowed for cooperation in trade, investment, and defense.

However, tensions have risen due to recent Israeli policies. Earlier this month, the UAE warned Israel that any annexation of parts of the West Bank would cross a “red line” and could damage bilateral relations. Sources suggest Abu Dhabi may even downgrade diplomatic ties with Israel if such annexation occurs.

The Gaza Conflict

The war in Gaza has been ongoing since the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel, which killed around 1,200 people. In response, Israel launched a large-scale military campaign in Gaza. Local health authorities in Gaza report that more than 65,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began, and many have been displaced.

Recent actions by several Western countries, including France, Britain, Canada, Australia, and Portugal, have added further pressure. These countries recognized Palestinian statehood in an effort to promote a two-state solution and bring an end to the violence. Israel, however, has strongly opposed these moves. Netanyahu’s government, currently the most right-wing in Israel’s history, has declared there will be no Palestinian state.

Importance of UAE’s Role

The UAE is one of the most influential Arab nations in terms of diplomacy, trade, and oil production. Its voice carries weight in the Middle East and globally. By urging peace and addressing Israeli leaders directly, the UAE aims to reduce violence and encourage diplomatic solutions.

Sheikh Abdullah’s intervention also highlights the UAE’s concern that unilateral actions by Israel, such as annexation of the West Bank, could destabilize the region further and undermine the progress achieved through the Abraham Accords.

Analysis

The meeting between Sheikh Abdullah and Netanyahu shows that even during times of conflict, dialogue remains crucial. The UAE’s appeal for peace reflects a balanced approach: supporting humanitarian efforts while encouraging political solutions.

It also illustrates the delicate position of Arab nations that maintain ties with Israel. They seek to preserve cooperation and economic benefits while also advocating for Palestinian rights.

While the conflict in Gaza continues, diplomatic initiatives like this could create space for negotiation and potentially reduce civilian suffering. The world is closely watching whether such interventions can influence Israel’s policies or encourage broader international support for peace in the region.

Disclaimer

This report is based on publicly available information from the UAE state news agency, the UN, and other verified sources. It provides simplified information for public understanding and does not take a position for or against any party.