Sheikh Mohamed discusses Middle East peace and strategic cooperation amid regional tensions.
President Sheikh Mohamed of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) articulated the necessity for a 'just and comprehensive peace' in the Middle East during a recent phone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The call, reported by the UAE state news agency Wam, took place as tensions heightened in the region, particularly in relation to the conflict between Hamas and Israel.
The UAE leader emphasized the importance of a two-state solution as a cornerstone for achieving stability and security in the Middle East.
This discussion comes amidst ongoing challenges regarding a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which has faced significant pressures.
Sheikh Mohamed and Rubio also explored avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, aligning with the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Marco Rubio was appointed as Secretary of State in January 2025, succeeding as a key figure in shaping US foreign policy after serving as a Florida senator and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
This bilateral dialogue occurs against the backdrop of President
Donald Trump's controversial statements regarding Gaza.
Trump recently indicated intentions to gain control of the region, stating there was 'nothing to buy' in Gaza and asserting that the US would 'take it'.
He claimed that there was support from Arab nations for his proposal to relocate Gaza's population to territories in Jordan, Egypt, and elsewhere.
Additionally, Trump set a deadline for the release of hostages held by Hamas, indicating that failure to meet this deadline could lead to renewed hostilities.
His remarks coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announcement regarding troop mobilization in and around Gaza.
Yousef Al Otaiba, the UAE ambassador to the US, addressed the World Governments Summit in Dubai, affirming that the UAE's approach to diplomacy is not solely dependent on any one administration.
When queried about finding common ground with the Trump administration concerning Gaza, he acknowledged the complexities but expressed a commitment to seeking solutions.
Al Otaiba stated, 'I think the current approach is going to be difficult but, at the end of the day, we're all in the solution-seeking business.'
This conversation reflects the ongoing diplomatic efforts of the UAE as it navigates the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.