Israeli Settler Leaders Praise UAE Ties During First Abu Dhabi Visit

Israeli Settler Leaders Strengthen UAE Ties in Landmark Visit

Israeli Delegation Holds Security and Economic Discussions in Abu Dhabi

Israeli media sources state that earlier this week, a group of Israeli settlement leaders traveled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and met with top Emirati officials to explore diplomatic, security, and economic cooperation.

Israel Ganz, the chairman of the Yesha Council, Omer Rahamim, the CEO of the Yesha Council, and Eliram Azoulay, the regional council for the Hebron Hills settlements, were among the group. A key milestone in fortifying relations between Israeli settlements and the UAE was their visit, which included an Iftar dinner hosted by senior UAE National Council member Dr. Ali Rashid al-Nuaimi.

Regional Shifts and Settlement Support

Ganz highlighted that collaboration with the UAE might support Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and characterized the visit as evidence of shifting regional dynamics. “This visit reflects the new reality of the region and the importance of collaboration to ensure a strong future for both nations,” he stated.

Azoulay called the trip a “significant step in strengthening settlements,” highlighting conversations with UAE leaders about shared concerns regarding Hamas, Hezbollah, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Iran. The delegation also discussed countering narratives in the Palestinian Authority’s education system, which they claim fosters hostility toward Israel.

Broader Implications of the Visit

Despite international opposition to Israeli settlements, the visit marks a continued strengthening of UAE-Israeli relations since the Abraham Accords. Although settlement construction on occupied lands is prohibited by international law, Israeli officials see political and economic cooperation with the UAE as a way to increase and justify their presence in the region.

The changing political landscape of the Middle East, where security and economic considerations are overriding long-standing diplomatic positions, is demonstrated by the UAE’s willingness to welcome Israeli settlement officials.