UAE Eyes Collaborative Role in Post-War Gaza Reconstruction and Governance

 The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has entered into discussions with Israel and the United States about participating in a temporary governance framework for Gaza after the war. These talks, focused on stabilizing and rebuilding Gaza, highlight the UAE’s growing role in addressing regional conflicts and advancing international solutions to one of the Middle East’s most protracted crises.

Emerging Plans for Transitional Administration

In confidential talks, revealed by Reuters, the UAE has proposed working alongside the United States and other nations to oversee Gaza’s governance, security, and reconstruction during a transitional period. This arrangement would act as a bridge until the Palestinian Authority (PA) is reformed and equipped to take over governance.

Although the discussions are still in their early stages, without any formal agreements or written plans, they signal the UAE’s willingness to assume a leadership role in shaping Gaza’s future. The Gulf nation’s diplomatic ties with Israel and close security partnership with the United States position it uniquely to mediate between conflicting interests.

Focus on Palestinian Authority Reform

Central to the UAE’s proposal is the restructuring and empowerment of the Palestinian Authority. Established in the 1990s under the Oslo Accords, the PA has struggled with corruption, inefficiency, and waning public trust. Its governance in Gaza ended in 2007 when Hamas took control following a civil conflict.

The UAE insists that meaningful reform of the PA is a prerequisite for any long-term solution in Gaza. This includes anti-corruption measures, institutional strengthening, and a roadmap toward Palestinian statehood encompassing Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.

An official from the UAE emphasized that any plan lacking these elements would fail, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s commitment to a comprehensive and sustainable solution. In the discussions, the UAE has advocated for new leadership within the PA, identifying individuals like Salam Fayyad—a reform-minded former prime minister with international credibility—as examples of suitable candidates to spearhead these changes.

Innovative Security Solutions: A Controversial Proposal

In addressing the volatile security situation in Gaza, the UAE has proposed the involvement of private military contractors as part of a multinational peacekeeping force. While such forces could provide operational expertise and flexibility, the idea has raised concerns due to the controversial history of private contractors in conflict zones.

Western nations, wary of past allegations of human rights abuses and excessive force by contractors in Iraq and Afghanistan, are likely to scrutinize such proposals closely. Nonetheless, the suggestion highlights the UAE’s determination to explore unconventional approaches to stabilize Gaza in the short term.

The Immense Task of Reconstruction

Rebuilding Gaza, which has suffered extensive destruction during the conflict, is expected to be a herculean task requiring international collaboration and substantial funding. Experts estimate that reconstruction will take years and cost tens of billions of dollars.

Beyond physical rebuilding, reconstructing Gaza’s political and social institutions will demand sustained international engagement. The UAE’s financial resources, coupled with its diplomatic and logistical capabilities, make it a potential linchpin in these efforts.

Regional Implications of UAE Involvement

The UAE’s willingness to engage in Gaza reflects its broader strategic goals in the Middle East. Abu Dhabi views Islamist groups like Hamas as threats to regional stability and has consistently opposed their influence.

Despite its criticisms of Israeli policies, including its military campaign in Gaza, the UAE shares common ground with Israel in opposing Hamas. This alignment, coupled with the UAE’s active promotion of economic integration and regional stability, has made it a key player in discussions about Gaza’s future.

For its part, Israel appears supportive of the UAE’s involvement, seeing it as an opportunity to include a pragmatic Arab partner in the rebuilding process. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed reservations about the PA governing Gaza in its current form, citing concerns over its curriculum and policies that he argues incite hostility toward Israel.

Diverging Perspectives on Gaza’s Future

While the UAE envisions a reformed Palestinian Authority eventually governing Gaza, Hamas has categorically rejected foreign intervention, insisting that Gaza’s governance remain entirely Palestinian. This divergence underscores the political complexities surrounding Gaza’s future.

The United States, meanwhile, continues to engage in diplomatic efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, working with partners like Egypt and Qatar. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently expressed hope for a ceasefire agreement in the coming weeks, emphasizing the need for an international framework to address Gaza’s long-term governance and reconstruction.

Challenges Ahead

The UAE’s proposals face significant challenges, including:

1. Political Resistance: Reconciling the differing views of Israel, Hamas, and the PA regarding Gaza’s governance.
2. Security Risks: Implementing a peacekeeping framework that ensures stability without sparking further tensions.
3. Reconstruction Complexity: Coordinating international funding and expertise to rebuild Gaza’s infrastructure and institutions.
4. Public Trust: Addressing the grievances of Gaza’s population, which has endured years of hardship and conflict.

Conclusion

The UAE’s discussions with Israel and the United States highlight a proactive approach to addressing Gaza’s post-war challenges. By advocating for Palestinian Authority reform, proposing innovative security measures, and committing to reconstruction efforts, the UAE aims to position itself as a key player in the region’s future.

However, the success of these efforts will depend on overcoming entrenched political divisions and securing broad international support. As talks progress, the UAE’s role in shaping Gaza’s future could set a precedent for how regional and global powers address similar conflicts in the years to come.