UAE calls for an independent Palestine under the Palestinian Authority.

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The UAE’s Minister of State, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, advocated for the establishment of a Palestinian state led by the Palestinian Authority (PA), with East Jerusalem designated as its capital. In a speech at the UN General Assembly on Monday, he outlined a proposal for a “temporary international mission” in the Gaza Strip, contingent upon an official request from the Palestinian government. This mission would aim to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis, restore security and law, and reunite Gaza and the West Bank under a reformed PA.

Sheikh Shakhboot emphasized that Palestine deserves recognition from all nations as a fully-fledged state under occupation. He noted, “Just a couple of weeks ago, it took its new seat in this hall like every other nation and has fulfilled the requirements for full membership in this organization.” 

His statements came on the final day of the UNGA in New York, following similar remarks made by various world representatives advocating for a Palestinian state within the framework of a two-state solution and a cessation of Israeli aggression in Palestinian territories and Lebanon. 

During his address, Sheikh Shakhboot reminded the assembly that “even wars have rules,” urging all parties to respect international law, including international humanitarian law. He stressed the necessity of achieving a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, expressing concern over the escalation of violence. He stated, “It is evident that what we have warned about is now unfolding beyond our control. We regret to see the war spread to Lebanon, at a time when we were hoping for an announcement about reaching a deal to end the war on Gaza.”

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In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the international body on Sunday, following a mass walkout by delegates in protest. He claimed that after the recent attacks, Israel was compelled to defend itself on multiple fronts, with Iran orchestrating activities in Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. Netanyahu stated, “If Iran should strike us, we will strike you. There is no place in Iran that the long arm of Israel cannot reach, and that is true of the entire Middle East.”

In the aftermath of these developments, the Israeli military has initiated a ground invasion of Lebanon, which follows a week marked by intensified airstrikes across the country and the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.