Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC), reaffirmed the United Arab Emirates’ historic and unwavering stance on the Palestinian cause during a significant meeting in Istanbul on April 18, 2025. This gathering marked the first meeting of the Parliamentary Group in Solidarity with Palestine, hosted by the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye and attended by 12 parliamentary leaders from various nations.
In his remarks, Ghobash emphasized that sustainable stability in the region cannot be achieved without a two-state solution. He reiterated the UAE’s steadfast commitment to supporting the legitimate and inalienable rights of the Palestinian people. This commitment includes the urgent need to establish a serious political process that would lead to the creation of an independent Palestinian state along the 4th of June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem designated as its capital.
Ghobash expressed heartfelt solidarity with the Palestinian people, particularly those in the Gaza Strip, who have been enduring widespread suffering. He condemned the ongoing killing, destruction, starvation, displacement, and acts of genocide that they are facing. His statements resonated deeply, reflecting the UAE leadership and people’s concerns about the humanitarian crisis in the region.
This meeting in Istanbul, held under the patronage of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, showcased a unified front among participating nations regarding the Palestinian cause. The presence of 12 heads of parliament underscored the importance of international solidarity in addressing the plight of Palestinians and seeking a resolution to the conflict.
The UAE’s position has been consistent over the years, advocating for a peaceful resolution that respects the rights of both Palestinians and Israelis. Ghobash’s remarks align with the UAE’s broader foreign policy objectives, which prioritize diplomatic engagement and humanitarian support in the Middle East.
In recent years, the UAE has taken significant steps toward normalizing relations with Israel, culminating in the Abraham Accords signed in 2020. However, the UAE leadership has consistently maintained that any normalization must be accompanied by progress on the Palestinian issue. Ghobash’s reaffirmation of support for the Palestinian cause at this meeting serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in Middle Eastern geopolitics.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached alarming levels, with reports of widespread destruction and a dire need for aid. Ghobash’s condemnation of the conditions faced by Palestinians highlights the urgency of international intervention and support. The UAE has previously provided humanitarian assistance to Gaza, and Ghobash’s statements indicate a continued commitment to aid efforts.
As the global community observes the ongoing crisis, the UAE’s role as a mediator and supporter of Palestinian rights remains crucial. The call for a two-state solution is not merely a political stance; it reflects a deep-seated belief that peace in the region is achievable through dialogue and mutual recognition.
The Istanbul meeting is part of a broader initiative to galvanize support for Palestine on international platforms. By bringing together parliamentary leaders, the UAE aims to strengthen alliances and push for a unified response to the challenges facing Palestinians.
In conclusion, Saqr Ghobash’s reaffirmation of the UAE’s commitment to the Palestinian cause during the Istanbul summit serves as a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His emphasis on the need for a two-state solution and the condemnation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza resonate with the aspirations of many who seek a peaceful resolution to this long-standing conflict.
