The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strongly condemned recent remarks made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asserting that his statements undermine regional stability and violate international law. The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement calling Netanyahu’s comments “provocative and unacceptable”, reinforcing its unwavering support for Palestinian sovereignty and rights.
UAE’s Official Response: Unwavering Support for Palestine
The UAE categorically rejected any suggestion that a Palestinian state could be established outside of the historical lands of Palestine, following Netanyahu’s assertion that Saudi Arabia could be an alternative location. His Excellency Khalifa Bin Shaheen Al Marar, UAE Minister of State, reaffirmed that the Palestinian people have an inalienable right to their homeland, and any attempt to displace or undermine their sovereignty is unacceptable.
“The two-state solution is the only viable path to lasting peace,” stated Al Marar. “Any rhetoric dismissing Palestinian sovereignty is a direct violation of international law and efforts toward regional stability.”
Solidarity with Saudi Arabia
In addition to condemning Netanyahu’s remarks, the UAE expressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom must not be questioned. Al Marar stressed that the UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to Saudi security, reinforcing the deep diplomatic ties between Gulf nations.
Call for International Intervention
The UAE urged the United Nations and the UN Security Council to take immediate action against policies and rhetoric that threaten peace and stability in the region. It called on the international community to:
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Reaffirm Palestinian sovereignty as a fundamental right.
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Prevent further Israeli settlement expansion that violates international agreements.
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Hold Israel accountable for actions that undermine diplomatic efforts.
“The world must unite to ensure that diplomatic agreements and resolutions are upheld,” stated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “Stability in the Middle East hinges on a just and comprehensive solution that respects the rights of all people.”
Context of Netanyahu’s Remarks
Netanyahu made the controversial statement during an interview with Israel’s Channel 14, suggesting that if Palestinians wanted a state, they could establish one in Saudi Arabia, as it has ample land. When asked whether normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia would require recognizing Palestinian statehood, he responded, “I will not sign an agreement that endangers Israel.”
The remarks have drawn widespread criticism, with Palestinian leaders calling them an attempt to erase Palestinian identity and rights.
Regional and Global Reactions
The UAE’s condemnation joins a wave of opposition from Arab nations, including:
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Saudi Arabia, which dismissed Netanyahu’s suggestion as a “blatant infringement on its sovereignty.”
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Egypt, which labeled the remarks as “detrimental to peace efforts.”
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Jordan, which reaffirmed its stance that Palestinian statehood is a non-negotiable right.
Global organizations, including the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), have also condemned the remarks, warning that they threaten to derail diplomatic efforts in the region.