In a significant display of regional unity, foreign ministers from five Arab nations – the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, and Egypt – voiced their collective support for ongoing mediation efforts to halt the recent flare-up of violence in Gaza. Convening in a virtual meeting on June 3rd, the ministers emphasized the urgency of de-escalating tensions and reviving a fragile ceasefire agreement established earlier in 2024.
The meeting comes amidst a period of renewed violence in the region. Gaza has witnessed a surge in Israeli airstrikes and rocket attacks from Palestinian militant groups in recent weeks. This escalation has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis, displacing thousands of Palestinians and overwhelming Gaza's already strained healthcare system.
The joint statement issued after the virtual conference underscored the critical role of international mediation efforts led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. The ministers specifically highlighted a ceasefire proposal presented by US President Joe Biden on June 2nd. They urged all parties involved to engage "seriously and positively" with this proposal, emphasizing its potential to secure a lasting ceasefire and facilitate the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to the besieged Gaza Strip.
Beyond the immediate aim of de-escalation, the Arab foreign ministers also reiterated their commitment to the two-state solution as the cornerstone of a durable peace agreement between Israelis and Palestinians. They called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the basis of the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This solution, they argued, aligns with numerous United Nations Security Council resolutions and offers the only viable path towards lasting regional stability.
The united stance of these Arab nations carries significant weight. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have traditionally maintained close ties with the United States and have increasingly warmed relations with Israel in recent years. Qatar, for its part, has long served as a key financial benefactor for the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank and Gaza. Jordan, bordering the West Bank, has deep historical and cultural connections to the Palestinians.
The willingness of these diverse Arab states to come together in support of a ceasefire and the two-state solution underscores the mounting international concern over the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While significant obstacles remain on the path to peace, this regional display of unity offers a glimmer of hope for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis.