UAE’s actions in Mosul and Gaza reflect a blend of humanitarianism and geopolitical strategy

Humanitarian development in UAE’s foreign policy in Iraq

In 2018, a year after the fall of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in Iraq, the UAE pledged $50 million to fund heritage reconstruction in Mosul. The amount has potentially been the largest cooperation to rebuild cultural heritage in the history of Iraq.

Humanitarian development is at the heart of UAE’s foreign policy in Iraq. It is evident from the Gulf state’s 2021 announcement to invest $3 billion as part of its broader post-conflict reconstruction efforts in Iraqi cities.

The initiative is aimed at improving economic and investment relations, create better opportunities for cooperation and partnership, and accelerate economic, social and developmental advancement in support of the Iraqi people.

The UAE has been putting substantial focus on infrastructure projects in Iraq to improve economic and energy ties. In addition, the Gulf state has also expressed an interest in supporting Iraqi agriculture and tourism.

Gaza efforts to establish long-term peace in Middle East

The Gaza crisis has been raging on since October 7 as Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israeli cities, killing some 1,200 people and taking several others hostages. Israel’s retaliatory strikes on Gaza have already claimed almost 38,000 Palestinian lives.

In an effort to establish long-term peace in the Middle East, the UAE in December 2023 expressed its intention to reconstruct Gaza after the Israel-Hamas fighting, provided a US-backed 2-state solution is brought to the table.

Reconstruction of Gaza is vital to contain the humanitarian crisis and is one of the integral elements to long-term Israel-Palestine peace process. UAE’s history of humanitarian diplomacy makes it a viable reconstruction partner.

The UAE has also been at the frontline of global efforts in providing critical humanitarian aid to Gaza. The nation’s efforts account for a substantial 27% contribution of the total aid sent to the enclave. The UAE has also established a field hospital and desalination facilities.

Final verdict

From funding Mosul heritage reconstruction to pledging humanitarian aid to Gaza, the UAE’s strong actions reflect a blend of humanitarianism and geopolitical strategy. Keep an eye out as The Gulf Independent team delivers more updates.