Abu Dhabi (TDI): The United Arab Emirates is unlikely to join the proposed international stabilization force for Gaza, due to the absence of a clear operational framework, a senior Emirati official said on Monday.
Speaking at the Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate forum, Anwar Gargash, adviser to the UAE president, said his country “does not yet see a clear framework for the stability force” and would therefore “probably not participate” under the current circumstances, according to media reports.
The multinational mission, coordinated by the United States, is expected to involve participation from Egypt, Qatar, Turkiye, and potentially the UAE.
Last week, US President Donald Trump said he expected the force to deploy to Gaza “very soon,” as a fragile ceasefire continues to hold after nearly two years of conflict.
The UAE, one of the few Arab states maintaining formal diplomatic ties with Israel following the Abraham Accords signed during Trump’s first term in 2020, has often emphasized diplomacy and reconstruction over military involvement in regional crises.
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The UAE’s cautious stance reflects broader concerns in the Gulf about becoming entangled in complex regional conflicts. While the country has provided humanitarian aid and financial support to Palestinians, direct military engagement remains a sensitive issue given domestic and regional political considerations.
Analysts suggest that the absence of a clear mandate and operational details for the stabilization force may be a key factor behind the UAE’s decision. Participation without well-defined objectives could expose the country to diplomatic and security risks, particularly in a volatile Gaza Strip.
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Meanwhile, the broader international community continues to push for a durable ceasefire and reconstruction plan for Gaza. Observers note that even without UAE participation, the stabilization force could still play a critical role in supporting humanitarian efforts and maintaining a fragile peace in the region.
