Aryeh Deri, chairman of Israel’s Shas Party, made his way to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday for an official visit. The visit was at the invitation of the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Abdullah bin Zayed. This trip marks a significant step in the ongoing diplomatic relations between Israel and the UAE, particularly after the historical Abraham Accords in 2021.
Delays Due to Conflict and Reinvitation
Although Deri was initially invited over a year ago, the trip was postponed due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The UAE had extended the invitation with the intention of discussing post-war strategies for Gaza, with a particular focus on the political and security implications of the conflict’s aftermath.
UAE’s Role in Gaza’s Post-War Governance
As part of its ongoing discussions with Israel and the United States, the UAE is proposing a provisional governance plan for Gaza once the conflict ends. The plan would involve a collaborative effort between the UAE, the U.S., and other international partners to temporarily oversee Gaza’s governance, security, and reconstruction following an Israeli military withdrawal. This is seen as a crucial step until a reformed Palestinian Authority can take charge of the region.
UAE’s Stance on Palestinian Authority Reforms
One of the key points highlighted by UAE officials is the need for significant reforms within the Palestinian Authority (PA). The UAE has made it clear that it will not participate in any post-war governance plan that does not address the empowerment of the Palestinian Authority and establish a credible roadmap toward a Palestinian state.
“The UAE will not participate in any plan that fails to include significant reform of the Palestinian Authority,” said one official, emphasizing the importance of these reforms for the success of any post-Gaza strategy.
The Strategic Role of the UAE in Middle Eastern Diplomacy
The UAE’s involvement in discussions about Gaza’s future governance is especially noteworthy due to its diplomatic ties with Israel, forged through the Abraham Accords. As a close partner of the United States and a key player in the Middle East, the UAE holds a unique position to influence Israeli leadership, particularly Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu.
U.S. Involvement and Ongoing Discussions
A U.S. State Department spokesperson confirmed that the United States is involved in ongoing deliberations with multiple international partners, including the UAE, about the governance, security, and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. However, the spokesperson refrained from commenting on the specifics of private diplomatic discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Aryeh Deri visit the UAE?
Deri’s visit was part of an official invitation extended by the UAE, aimed at discussing post-war strategies for Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian dynamics. The UAE has a vested interest in helping shape the region’s future after the war with Hamas.
What role is the UAE playing in Gaza’s future governance?
The UAE is involved in discussions with Israel and the United States about overseeing Gaza’s governance, security, and reconstruction after an Israeli military withdrawal. This would be a provisional arrangement until a reformed Palestinian Authority takes over.
What is the UAE required to participate in post-war plans for Gaza?
The UAE has emphasized that any plan for Gaza’s future must include significant reforms to the Palestinian Authority and a credible path toward establishing a Palestinian state. Without these reforms, the UAE would not have participated in the governance plan.
Conclusion
Aryeh Deri’s visit to the UAE highlights the growing diplomatic ties between the two nations and signals the UAE’s continued involvement in shaping the future of Gaza. The UAE’s strategic position as a partner to both the U.S. and Israel allows it to play a key role in the post-war planning for the region. However, the success of any such plan hinges on significant reforms to the Palestinian Authority and the establishment of a viable pathway toward Palestinian statehood. The ongoing discussions, while still in early stages, hold the potential to reshape the dynamics of the Middle East in the years to come.