Biden and Harris meet UAE President in Washington amid Gaza conflict

On September 19, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are scheduled to meet with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed in Washington. The meeting comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has raised concerns about regional stability. The discussions will cover various topics, including advanced technology, artificial intelligence, and security cooperation, reflecting the UAE's strategic interests in these areas. The UAE has expressed frustration over the lack of a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, highlighting its desire for a resolution that includes the establishment of a Palestinian state. This sentiment is echoed by Saudi Arabia, which has also criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approach to the conflict and the ongoing occupation of Gaza. While the UAE has established ties with Israel through the Abraham Accords, its leaders are increasingly vocal about the need for a balanced approach to the Israeli-Palestinian issue. The UAE's Foreign Minister recently stated that the country would not support a post-war scenario in Gaza without addressing Palestinian statehood. As the conflict escalates, with fighting spreading to Lebanon, the meeting between Biden, Harris, and Sheikh Mohammed is crucial for addressing these regional tensions. The outcomes of these discussions may influence future diplomatic efforts and the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.