Friday, 21st August 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 3rd September 2025, 11:29 AM
Israeli plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank have been described as a “red line” for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), one of the few Arab nations that formally recognises Israel.
On Wednesday, Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs of the UAE, issued a statement to Agence France-Presse (AFP) underscoring her country’s firm stance: “Annexation of the West Bank would constitute a red line for the UAE.”
The UAE, which normalised diplomatic relations with Israel in 2020 under the Abraham Accords, has positioned itself as a key regional partner in dialogue with Tel Aviv. However, Nusseibeh’s statement signals that any formal annexation of Palestinian territory would severely test these ties.
| Key Aspect | Details |
| Country involved | United Arab Emirates (UAE) |
| Spokesperson | Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs |
| Issue at hand | Potential Israeli annexation of parts of the occupied West Bank |
| UAE’s position | Annexation represents a “red line” |
| Diplomatic backdrop | UAE is among the few Arab nations that have formally recognised Israel |
| Source of statement | Official remarks shared with Agence France-Presse (AFP) |
The declaration highlights the fragile balance between diplomatic engagement and longstanding Arab solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Should Israel pursue annexation, the UAE has suggested it would see the move as a breach of trust and a direct challenge to the foundations of regional peace and cooperation.
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