UAE Reaffirms Gaza Ceasefire & Backs Lebanon at UN Session

At a recent UN Security Council meeting, the UAE reiterated its call for a ceasefire in Gaza, as its Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN, Mohamed Abushahab, addressed the urgent crises impacting the Middle East. Emphasizing the need for humanitarian support, Abushahab highlighted the UAE’s concern over civilian safety in Gaza and support for Lebanon’s sovereignty amidst regional unrest.

Demand for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid

The UAE called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories. Ambassador Abushahab emphasized the importance of providing “urgent, complete, and unhindered” access to humanitarian aid and demanded the release of all hostages and detainees. Addressing the escalating violence in Gaza, Abushahab condemned the significant civilian losses caused by Israeli attacks, which have led to the deaths of hundreds and displaced more than 60,000 people. He highlighted that over 90% of Gaza’s population now faces severe food insecurity due to the sharp decline in aid and food supplies.

Targeting of Hospitals and Health Risks

The UAE expressed deep concern over the targeting of hospitals and medical workers within Gaza. “My country condemns all these serious violations, including the attacks on hospitals and ongoing threats to medical personnel,” said Abushahab. He pointed to the recent halt of the polio vaccination campaign in northern Gaza, putting children’s lives at risk, as a dire consequence of the conflict. The UAE also highlighted a statement from Joyce Msuya, Acting Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, warning that the population in northern Gaza faces life-threatening conditions due to siege, starvation, and the killing of civilians.

Objection to UNWRA Ban and Condemnation of Israeli Policies

Abushahab condemned Israel’s ban on UNWRA workers in occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, calling it a violation of international norms. He reaffirmed the essential role of UNRWA in providing critical humanitarian assistance during the ongoing conflict. Further, the UAE criticized Israeli policies, such as the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, which they see as undermining the prospect of a two-state solution. “The UAE supports an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital,” Abushahab stated, reaffirming UAE’s stance on peace based on UN resolutions.

Lebanon and Regional Stability

Turning to Lebanon, the UAE condemned Israel’s recent actions and violations of Security Council Resolution 1701. Abushahab stressed that repeated attacks on UNIFIL forces jeopardize peacekeeping efforts in the region. Reaffirming UAE’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and independence, Abushahab warned that continued aggression in Lebanon risks further destabilizing the region.

UAE’s Humanitarian and Diplomatic Efforts

Alongside its call for peace, the UAE continues to contribute to humanitarian efforts, including an aid package of $100 million to Lebanon and an additional $30 million for Lebanese refugees in Syria. The UAE has also maintained substantial support for Gaza, addressing its people’s urgent needs as part of its ongoing humanitarian commitment.

In concluding his statement, Abushahab appealed for regional peace and cooperation: “I call on all parties to exercise restraint, engage in dialogue, and respect international laws and state sovereignty. Only through these principles can we resolve the crises at hand.”

The UAE’s stance at the UN Security Council underscores its dedication to peace, stability, and humanitarian support across the Middle East.