UAE rejects ‘false claims’ it will assume civil administration in Gaza

ABU DHABI - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has firmly rejected reports suggesting it plans to assume civilian administration of the Gaza Strip, describing the claims as "false and unfounded."

Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, issued on Monday a clear denial in an official statement. She categorically dismissed suggestions that Abu Dhabi would take over governance responsibilities in Gaza, emphasizing that "Gaza’s governance and administration are the responsibility of the Palestinian people."

The statement, released through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, came in direct response to media reports—primarily from Israeli outlet Channel 12—alleging that the UAE was in advanced discussions with the United States to oversee civilian affairs in Gaza. 

Those reports, citing unnamed sources, claimed the arrangement could involve significant UAE investment (potentially billions of dollars) as part of post-conflict transition efforts under a ceasefire framework.

Al Hashimy reiterated the UAE's longstanding position on the matter and highlighted Abu Dhabi's ongoing focus in the region by being committed to “scaling up its humanitarian efforts to support Palestinians in Gaza and advancing a durable peace between Israelis and Palestinians, including through its role as a Board of Peace founding member and its membership on the Gaza Executive Board.”

The UAE has been a major provider of humanitarian assistance to Gaza amid prolonged conflict and displacement, channeling aid through various channels while consistently advocating for Palestinian-led governance solutions.

This denial aligns with broader UAE policy, which supports Palestinian self-determination and avoids direct administrative involvement in the territory. Officials stressed that the country's engagement remains humanitarian and diplomatic, not governmental.

The swift rebuttal underscores sensitivities around external involvement in Gaza's future administration, especially as discussions continue internationally about post-war reconstruction, security arrangements, and political transitions in the enclave.

As the situation evolves, the UAE's statement reinforces its commitment to supporting Palestinian-led outcomes while dismissing speculation about assuming a governing role.