UAE President and leaders of Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain discuss bilateral ties and regional developments on call

The Israel-Hamas conflict has taken a more chaotic turn as Iran launched 300 missiles and drones on Sunday, bringing a fresh phase of tension, uncertainty and confrontation in the Middle East. The Israeli military is delaying its ground operation in Rafah.

Despite significant pressure from different countries to call off an all-out offensive, the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, has highlighted the need to invade Rafah to dismantle Hamas militants’ remaining battalions, reported CNN.

Israel is mulling a response to the Iranian attack. Simultaneously, US President Joe Biden remains focused on preventing the incident from spiralling into a broader regional conflict. The US seeks peace amid an approaching presidential election later this year.

UAE stressing need for de-escalation of tensions

The brutal Gaza crisis erupted on October 7 as Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israeli cities, killing some 1,200 people and taking several others hostages. Israel’s retaliatory attacks, on the other hand, have so far claimed over 33,000 Palestinian lives.

The UAE has regularly been stressing the need for de-escalation of tensions, a ceasefire and improved humanitarian response. Through its ‘Gallant Knight 3’ operation, the Gulf state has already delivered tonnes of essential items to people in the besieged territory.

UAE President and other regional leaders on phone calls

1. Qatar

Emirati leader HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan talked to the Emir of Qatar, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on Sunday, discussing bilateral relations and opportunities for further collaboration to help achieve mutual development goals.

The leaders also reviewed several regional and international issues, foremost among them the situation in the Middle East and the ongoing crisis in Gaza. They underscored the importance of pursuing a just, comprehensive and lasting peace based on the two-state solution.

2. Jordan

The same day, the UAE President also spoke to the King of Jordan, HM King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, discussing fraternal relations and developments in the region. They emphasised the need for urgent action by the global community to contain tension.

3. Bahrain

HH Sheikh Mohamed also talked to the King of Bahrain, HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, on a phone call, discussing fraternal relations and the need to intensify efforts to reach a Gaza ceasefire and provide full protection for civilians.

The leaders noted the importance of ensuring the delivery of sufficient aid to Gazans in a sustainable and unhindered manner, besides the need to prevent the brutal conflict from expanding further in the region, according to the official Emirates News Agency.