In a statement released on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates expressed strong condemnation for the extremist remarks made by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. These statements advocated for the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, the reoccupation of the Gaza Strip, and the construction of settlements within it.
The UAE firmly disapproves of such offensive statements and any actions that violate resolutions of international legitimacy. The Ministry emphasized the need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to halt the ongoing bloodshed. They called for the urgent, safe, sustainable, and unimpeded delivery of relief and humanitarian aid, particularly targeting the most vulnerable groups such as the sick, children, the elderly, and women.
Expressing concern about the escalating situation, the UAE urged the international community to intensify efforts for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. Additionally, they called for comprehensive and just peace efforts while preventing regional spillover that could lead to more violence, tension, and instability.
Referring to the devastating impact of the conflict, the UAE highlighted the alarming figures from Gaza’s Ministry of Health, reporting 22,600 Palestinians killed and 57,910 wounded since the beginning of Israel’s actions on October 7. The majority of casualties are believed to be women and children. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) indicated that, as of October 7, 2023, over 85% of Gaza’s population, or 1.9 million Palestinians, have been displaced, with some experiencing multiple displacements in search of safety.
According to UNRWA’s latest Situation Report as of December 30, 2023, nearly 1.4 million internally displaced persons are seeking shelter in 155 UNRWA facilities across all five governorates of the Gaza Strip. Moreover, more than 60% of Gaza’s infrastructure is reported to be damaged or destroyed.