The UAE has urged for calm and restraint amid escalating conflicts both regionally and globally. A senior Emirati official emphasized the need for unity, diplomacy, and adherence to the rule of law during the UN General Assembly's recent session, stating that these principles should guide responses to contentious issues. This call comes as Lebanon faces war and a ceasefire in Gaza remains elusive.
"We regret seeing the conflict spread to Lebanon, especially when we were anticipating an agreement to end the war in Gaza," said Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, during the UN's general debate. He noted that the situation is unfolding beyond control, with serious violations deepening human suffering and erasing decades of progress. "Even wars have rules," he emphasized, urging parties to respect international law, including humanitarian law.
Sheikh Shakhboot highlighted the urgency of returning to basic human principles in conflicts ranging from Gaza and Lebanon to Sudan, Ukraine, Yemen, Syria, and Libya. He called for wise responses to rapid developments threatening the region. Additionally, the UAE renewed its demand for Iran to end its occupation of the three UAE islands: Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa.
The minister reiterated the UAE's commitment to resolving crises through diplomacy, stating, "We cannot fight fire with fire." He emphasized the need to safeguard people's lives and regional stability, including the security of international navigation, trade routes, and energy supplies. In Gaza and Sudan, he called for immediate and permanent ceasefires and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid.
The UAE has also been active in providing relief, with President Sheikh Mohamed recently ordering $100 million in aid for Lebanon and contributing another $100 million to UN humanitarian efforts in Sudan and neighboring countries. Two hospitals were established in Chad to treat vulnerable populations, including Sudanese refugees, and constant support is provided to UNRWA in Gaza.
The UAE remains steadfast in its support for an independent Palestinian state, advocating for concrete steps towards establishing such a state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Sheikh Shakhboot suggested the establishment of a temporary international mission in Gaza to address the humanitarian crisis, re-establish security and law, and reunite Gaza and the West Bank under a reformed Palestinian Authority.
