The UAE’s Shifting Compass: Key Historical Moments and Facts
Newly revealed documents expose a controversial UAE-Israel collaboration aimed at reshaping Gaza’s future in the aftermath of the ongoing war. The plan, known as the “Next-Day Strategy,” outlines measures to sideline Palestinian resistance, restructure Gaza’s governance, and place it under international and Israeli control, sparking significant backlash.
The UAE’s recent diplomatic maneuvers highlight a long-standing shift in its foreign policy. Despite the ongoing atrocities committed by Israel in Gaza—including over 60,000 deaths, famine, and the displacement of two million Palestinians—the UAE has maintained its ambassador in Tel Aviv. This reflects Abu Dhabi’s steadfast alliance with Israel, even amid one of the most devastating periods in Palestinian history.
The UAE’s stance is consistent with a pattern of controversial diplomatic decisions that prioritize political alliances over Palestinian solidarity. In 2013, the UAE withdrew its ambassador from Tunisia following the Tunisian president’s demand for the release of Egypt’s ousted President Mohamed Morsi, who was deposed in a military coup supported by Abu Dhabi. Similarly, in 2015, the UAE pulled its ambassador from Sweden after Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallström criticized Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and called for the release of Gulf political prisoners.
In 2021, Abu Dhabi recalled its ambassador from Lebanon following Lebanese Information Minister George Kordahi’s remarks condemning the Yemen war, where the UAE is a key participant. However, despite Israel’s escalating aggression against Palestinians in Gaza, the UAE continues to foster strong ties with Tel Aviv.
Details of the “Next-Day Strategy”
The leaked documents reveal that the UAE’s proposed strategy involves deploying military contractors, commonly referred to as mercenaries, to secure Gaza under international supervision. The plan grants Israel overarching authority over the territory while systematically marginalizing Hamas and other resistance factions.
The plan also includes preconditions that portray the Palestinian Authority (PA) as corrupt and in need of reform. This narrative is intended to justify sidelining the PA until it undergoes significant restructuring.
Emirate Leaks uncovered that the UAE has been coordinating closely with Israeli officials to implement the strategy, which frames its objectives as humanitarian relief and governance reform. Critics argue that the real aim is to dismantle Palestinian resistance and consolidate control over Gaza.
The Palestinian Authority has formally rejected the UAE’s proposal, viewing it as a direct infringement on Palestinian sovereignty. The PA leadership criticized the plan’s preconditions, which demand extensive reforms to its governance structure, including the appointment of a new prime minister and the establishment of a committee to oversee Gaza under international supervision.
The UAE’s “Next-Day Strategy” outlines several controversial objectives. These include addressing Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, enforcing law and order through international forces, and rebuilding Gaza’s infrastructure. However, the proposal’s most contentious aspect is its marginalization of Palestinian leadership, particularly Hamas, and its reliance on external actors to govern the territory initially.
The plan envisions a temporary international mission taking over security responsibilities in Gaza, effectively sidelining Palestinian security forces. Under this framework, a UAE-led committee would oversee reconstruction and governance in Gaza, gradually reinstating PA authority while diminishing Hamas’s influence.
Financial and Political Stakes
According to the leaks, the UAE aims to secure financial backing from Saudi Arabia and other international donors to fund Gaza’s reconstruction. This effort would focus on rebuilding infrastructure and restoring essential services, presenting the UAE as a key regional power broker.
The documents also suggest that the UAE sees the plan as an opportunity to expand its geopolitical influence. By aligning with Israeli and Western interests, Abu Dhabi seeks to strengthen its role in shaping the region’s political future, even at the expense of Palestinian unity.
Backlash Against UAE’s Role
The leaks have reignited criticism of the UAE’s foreign policy, particularly its growing alignment with Israel. Observers argue that Abu Dhabi’s actions undermine Palestinian resistance and sovereignty while advancing its geopolitical ambitions. The “Next-Day Strategy” reflects a broader trend in UAE diplomacy, where strategic alliances and economic interests take precedence over solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
The revelations by Emirate Leaks highlight the UAE’s increasingly controversial role in regional politics, further fueling tensions over its alignment with Israel and its approach to the Palestinian conflict.
