Abu Dhabi Takes a Hardline Stance Against Hamas
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reaffirmed its refusal to finance Gaza’s reconstruction unless Hamas is permanently disarmed and removed from power. Following the disappointing outcome of the Cairo summit, UAE officials have privately expressed frustration that the meeting failed to present a clear plan for Gaza’s post-war governance.
The UAE, which has been a leader in the Abraham Accords and a strong proponent of regional stability, views Hamas as an obstacle to peace. Abu Dhabi has no interest in seeing the terror group remain in power, fearing that continued Hamas rule will only perpetuate violence and instability. Unlike Qatar, which has historically supported Hamas financially and politically, the UAE has taken a firm anti-Hamas stance, aligning itself more closely with Saudi Arabia and Israel in seeking the group’s total removal.
No Blank Checks for Terrorism
The UAE’s message is clear: there will be no blank checks for Gaza if Hamas remains in control. In past conflicts, the Gulf states have poured billions into Gaza’s reconstruction, only to see Hamas divert those funds toward building terror tunnels, stockpiling weapons, and preparing for the next war against Israel. This time, the UAE is not willing to make the same mistake.
Abu Dhabi has communicated to Western allies that humanitarian aid should not be exploited to prop up Hamas. Instead, any future aid must be conditional on the establishment of a new governance structure in Gaza—one that is not tied to Iran, the Muslim Brotherhood, or any extremist ideology.
Backing a Post-Hamas Vision for Gaza
The UAE is actively engaging with international partners to shape a post-Hamas future for Gaza. Unlike previous wars, where Hamas emerged battered but still in power, Abu Dhabi is pushing for a decisive shift that would see Gaza administered by a more moderate leadership—potentially under the umbrella of a regional Arab coalition. While no formal plan has been announced, discussions have included the possibility of temporary international oversight of Gaza until a long-term governance solution is established.
Trump’s Role in Hamas’ Demise
The UAE also supports U.S. efforts to pressure Hamas into surrendering its weapons. Former President Trump’s strong stance against Iranian-backed terror groups, combined with his ability to negotiate from a position of strength, has reassured Abu Dhabi that Hamas’ days are numbered. UAE officials believe that a combination of U.S. pressure, Israeli military operations, and Arab diplomatic influence will ultimately lead to Hamas’ defeat.
Abu Dhabi is also watching closely how the situation in Lebanon unfolds. With Hezbollah escalating its attacks on Israel, the UAE sees a broader Iranian strategy at play one that seeks to destabilize the region through proxy wars. The UAE has already taken steps to counter Iranian influence by strengthening its defense ties with Israel and Saudi Arabia, and it is prepared to take further action if necessary.
A New Middle East Without Hamas
The UAE’s position on Hamas is not just about Gaza it is about shaping the future of the Middle East. Abu Dhabi envisions a region where economic cooperation, technological innovation, and security partnerships replace endless cycles of conflict. To achieve this, groups like Hamas must be eliminated, and Iranian influence must be rolled back.
The failure of the Cairo summit to produce meaningful results has only strengthened the UAE’s resolve. As Israel continues its military operations against Hamas, the UAE and its Gulf allies are making it clear: the old paradigm of financing Gaza’s reconstruction while Hamas remains in power is over. The new reality is one where Hamas has no future in Gaza or anywhere else in the region.
