In a significant diplomatic move, President Joe Biden announced on Monday that the United States has officially designated the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a major defense partner. This recognition follows talks between Biden and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during which they discussed pressing issues such as the ongoing war in Gaza and the escalating instability in the Middle East.
The designation as a major defense partner, a title previously held only by India since 2016, facilitates closer military collaboration between the two nations. This partnership allows for joint training exercises and various forms of cooperative military efforts, which is particularly important given the heightened tensions in the region.
The backdrop to this announcement includes the devastating conflict in Gaza, where reports indicate that over 41,000 Palestinians have lost their lives since Hamas’s surprise attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. The violence has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with more than 1,100 Israelis reported dead and countless others injured.
Despite its defense partnership with the US, the UAE has actively supported Palestine at the United Nations Security Council, putting forth resolutions that condemn Israel’s actions in Gaza. This stance has occasionally put the Gulf nation at odds with the US government, which has historically been a staunch ally of Israel. Following their meeting, both leaders issued a statement calling for “urgent, unhindered” humanitarian aid to Gaza and emphasized their commitment to achieving a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
In light of the broader regional tensions, Biden highlighted the ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon, which have reportedly claimed the lives of at least 492 people. He reiterated that his administration is in constant contact with relevant parties in the region to de-escalate the situation and ensure the safety of civilians.
The discussions also touched on the UAE’s involvement in the conflict in Sudan, where both leaders acknowledged that a military solution is not viable and emphasized the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis caused by the war.
In addition to security issues, Biden and Al Nahyan discussed collaborative efforts in areas such as space exploration, clean energy, and artificial intelligence. The UAE has embarked on ambitious initiatives in these sectors, drawing attention from global powers, including the US and its geopolitical rival, China.
Vice President Kamala Harris also met with the UAE president, focusing on the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The White House reported that Harris expressed deep concerns regarding the millions displaced by the conflict and the atrocities committed against civilians.
Another topic of importance was the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a project unveiled at the 2023 G20 Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi. Both leaders underscored the potential of this initiative to enhance global trade, facilitate clean energy distribution, and improve connectivity between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The IMEC aims to create a network connecting India with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel, and Europe, promoting economic growth and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The designation of the UAE as a major defense partner underscores the evolving dynamics of US foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly in the context of rising tensions and humanitarian crises. It reflects a commitment to strengthen military ties while navigating complex regional relationships and addressing pressing global challenges.
