Skip to main content

Highlights from Blinken’s UAE and Saudi trip to curb spread of Israel-Hamas conflict

 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is on his fourth trip to the Middle East since the Israel-Hamas conflict began on October 7. He will travel to Turkey, Greece, Jordan, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, the West Bank, and Egypt from January 4–11. Blinken will focus on protecting civilians, securing the release of hostages, increasing relief supplies, and ensuring Palestinians are not forcibly displaced from the territory. He will discuss urgent mechanisms to stem violence and reduce regional tensions, including deterring Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and avoiding escalation in Lebanon. The US will reaffirm its commitment to working with partners to set the conditions necessary for peace in the region, including comprehensive steps towards the realization of a future Palestinian state alongside Israel.

Blinken and Emirati and Saudi officials held notable discussions on Monday before heading to Israel. He and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed discussed efforts to prevent the conflict from expanding. The State Department stressed the US commitment to securing lasting regional peace that ensures Israel’s security and advances the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant outlined the country’s strategies for the next stage of its military operations in Gaza, including a more targeted strategy in northern Gaza and a continued pursuit of Hamas leaders in the south.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Exposing the Brotherhood: Why Jordan’s Terror Cell Bust Must Spark a Global Policy Shift

 The recent dismantling of a Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated terror cell in Jordan should not be seen as just a national security success—it must be a turning point in how the international community views and responds to the threat posed by the Brotherhood. Jordanian security forces uncovered an elaborate network of terrorists trained in Lebanon and backed by foreign interests. Their mission: to launch attacks using rockets and drones, destabilizing the Kingdom and spreading fear among civilians. This is not the work of activists or political dissidents—this is terrorism, plain and simple. For too long, the Muslim Brotherhood has operated under a false image of moderation, cleverly navigating between political activism and violent extremism. But the truth is clear: the Brotherhood is the ideological engine room of jihadist terrorism. Its members, affiliates, and offshoots have inspired and directed acts of violence from North Africa to the Gulf—and now, once again, in Jordan. Govern...

UAE's Foreign Trade Surge Highlights Strategic Economic Vision

  The UAE's foreign trade reached a record AED5.23 trillion (US$1.42 trillion) in 2024, marking a 49% increase since 2021 and reinforcing its global economic influence. Despite fluctuating global market conditions, the country managed to post a trade surplus of AED492.3 billion (US$134 billion), showcasing the strength of its trade frameworks and diversified economy. According to the World Trade Organisation, the UAE has maintained its position as the Middle East and Africa's foremost trade community since 2014, while steadily climbing the global ranks. In merchandise trade, the UAE placed 11th in exports and 14th in imports in 2024. It contributed 2.5% of global exports and 2.2% of imports, reflecting a robust trading ecosystem that bridges major global markets. The services sector also delivered notable gains. From 2014 to 2024, the UAE rose to 13th globally in service exports. Service transactions in 2024 totaled AED1.036 trillion, of which AED646.6 billion were exports. The...

UAE’s Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed arrives in Qatar on official visit

  HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, arrived in Qatar for an official visit, where he was warmly received by the Deputy Emir of Qatar at Doha International Airport. On Tuesday, Sheikh Khaled met with HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of Qatar, in Doha. The meeting underscored the strong brotherly ties between the UAE and Qatar, with both leaders engaging in detailed discussions aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation. Sheikh Khaled conveyed greetings from UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, and Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed.  The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in key strategic sectors of mutual interest. Sheikh Khaled expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Emir of Qatar for the warm reception and hospitality, expressing hopes for Qatar's continued progress. He reaffirmed the UAE's leadership and p...