Dr. S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to the UAE highlights strengthened India-UAE ties amidst the Gaza ceasefire. The UAE is positioned to support Gaza’s reconstruction while maintaining ties with Israel. Both nations share a common interest in economic stability and regional cooperation, reflecting their strategic partnership despite ongoing geopolitical challenges. Collaboration focuses on sustaining trade and engaging in joint initiatives, emphasizing the need for order amidst unrest.
The diplomatic interactions between India and the UAE have increased significantly in the last five years, marked by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s third visit to the UAE in January 2025. His agenda included attending the Raisina Middle East Dialogue and engaging with prominent Emirati leaders. This visit underlines the deepening ties between the two nations amid a fragile ceasefire in Gaza and the UAE’s critical regional involvement.
The UAE has expressed a willingness to support Gaza’s governance following the recent conflict while maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel. It aims to leverage these ties to influence Israeli policy towards Palestinians without severing the Abraham Accords. Abu Dhabi’s firm criticism of Israel’s actions at international platforms demonstrates its commitment to advocating for Palestinian sovereignty though it remains strategically aligned with Israel.
UAE’s approach in Gaza revolves around establishing a united Palestinian Authority (PA) under credible leadership while insisting that this occurs alongside the removal of Israeli security presence. This conditionality aims to redefine governance in Gaza without endorsing the current PA structure. The UAE’s position indicates caution regarding direct involvement, necessitating clear Israeli commitments to Palestinian statehood.
In the broader regional context, the UAE is actively working to diversify its economy, achieving political stability rather than prolonging conflict. It harbors significant investments, which could be jeopardized by instability caused by Israeli actions toward a Palestinian state. Hence, the UAE seeks guaranteed conditions for its potential participation in Gaza’s reconstruction.
India and UAE share similar approaches on the Israel-Palestine issue, focused on negotiated solutions. Their collaboration has expanded into various geopolitical endeavors, including developmental projects in Jammu and Kashmir. While navigating regional complexities, the India-UAE relationship remains strong with substantial economic ties, managing to withstand fluctuations in global diplomacy.
Both nations have undertaken strategic partnerships despite regional tensions, exemplified by their economic exchanges. Trade has dipped slightly but remains resilient compared to other bilateral partnerships in the region. Notably, the IMEEC initiative underscores their collective goal in stabilizing economic corridors between the Middle East and Europe, ensuring mutual interests aren’t undermined by regional conflicts.
The dynamics of the Israel-Palestine conflict and international responses to the situation substantially influence the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. The UAE’s transformation from a traditional ally of Palestine to a more pragmatic partner with Israel following the Abraham Accords is critical in understanding its current role in the aftermath of the Gaza conflict. This shift plays a significant role in its relationship with India, particularly in terms of economic and strategic partnerships.
The evolving relationship between India and the UAE amidst the Gaza conflict underscores the importance of diplomatic engagement in fostering regional stability. Both nations share common geopolitical objectives, balancing economic interests with political maneuvers. As the UAE seeks active involvement in Palestinian governance, its demands for Israeli cooperation pose potential challenges but also reflect substantive efforts towards peace.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
