Pakistan and several other countries on Thursday condemned Israel’s “dastardly attack” on the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) after its forces intercepted the flotilla heading to break Israel’s siege of Gaza and deliver aid. Israeli forces began intercepting the flotilla’s latest bid to reach Gaza late last night, the fleet said. Israel has so far intercepted 39 boats with foreign activists on board to Gaza, leaving only one vessel still sailing towards the Palestinian enclave, the flotilla organisers said today. The 45-vessel flotilla, with activists and politicians including Greta Thunberg on board, left Spain last month to break Israel’s blockade of Gaza, where the United Nations has warned of famine. Former Pakistani senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan was also on board. Hours after Tel Aviv’s move drew global condemnation, Israeli foreign ministry posted on X that all on board the flotilla were safe would be “deported to Europe”...
In an urgent response to the escalating violence in Gaza and Lebanon, leaders from Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have issued a strong call for a cease-fire, urging international intervention to protect civilians and restore peace in the region. Recent talks between UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah underscored a mutual commitment to stability, security, and regional cooperation as tensions mount.
Urgent Appeal for Cease-Fire
Both Sheikh Mohamed and Emir Sheikh Mishal expressed deep concern over the recent surge in hostilities, with a particular focus on the severe impact on civilian populations. Their statements emphasized the importance of a comprehensive cease-fire to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The UAE and Kuwaiti leaders jointly urged the international community to act swiftly in brokering peace, calling for global powers to uphold the principles of diplomacy and human rights.
In an official statement, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed tweeted, “We urge all nations to prioritize human dignity and peace in the region, ending the cycle of violence and ensuring protection for innocent civilians.”
Strengthening Economic and Regional Ties
While focused on the immediate crisis, Sheikh Mohamed’s visit to Kuwait also reinforced economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations. Both leaders acknowledged that regional stability and economic resilience are interdependent. Discussions centered on enhancing economic partnerships that would contribute to broader regional stability, even in these challenging times. By strengthening collaboration across sectors, Kuwait and the UAE seek to foster long-term security and prosperity, highlighting the role of economic strength in counterbalancing regional crises.
Protection of Civilians in Conflict Zones
The humanitarian impact of the Gaza and Lebanon conflict was a focal point of the discussions. Both leaders voiced strong commitments to international humanitarian law, particularly the protection of civilians in active conflict zones. The appeal from Kuwait and the UAE aligns with the urgent need for safety measures and underscores their shared concern for the welfare of vulnerable populations affected by the violence.
Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Mishal remarked, “The lives of innocent civilians must be safeguarded above all else. We stand by our commitment to international humanitarian principles and call upon others to do the same.”
Commitment to Lebanon’s Sovereignty
In a significant show of regional solidarity, Sheikh Mohamed and Emir Sheikh Mishal reaffirmed their dedication to Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The UAE and Kuwait urged international actors to respect Lebanon’s borders and work to protect its stability, calling for concerted efforts to prevent the further spread of hostilities into Lebanese territory. Their statements reflect a clear commitment to supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty and to the broader principle of respecting national borders within the Middle East.
Escalating Conflict Between Israel and Hezbollah
The call for peace comes as the year-long hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah continue to intensify, with rising casualties on both sides and in Gaza. The increased violence has placed Lebanon’s security at risk and exacerbated the already critical situation in Gaza, with widespread implications for the entire region. The leaders of Kuwait and the UAE urged a collaborative approach to address the root causes of the conflict and prevent its spread, advocating for a sustainable solution that prioritizes human rights and diplomatic resolution.
A Call for Unity and Peace
As Sheikh Mohamed and Emir Sheikh Mishal concluded their talks, both reiterated the importance of unity, stability, and peace across the Middle East. Their shared stance against violence and their focus on civilian protection demonstrate a vision for the region that transcends political divides. This call for cease-fire and solidarity reflects a larger commitment to upholding peace and stability during one of the Middle East’s most challenging periods.
In closing, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed stated, “The pursuit of peace is a shared responsibility, one that transcends national borders and demands urgent action.” As Kuwait and the UAE lead calls for an immediate cease-fire, their appeals underscore a profound commitment to the values of humanity, unity, and compassion in the face of conflict.
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