Sheikh Abdullah presses for Gaza ceasefire during talks with Israeli counterpart

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE's Minister of Foreign Affairs, stressed the priority of working towards a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages during talks with Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa'ar.

The two sides discussed "regional and international efforts to resume a truce agreement, achieve a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages" in Abu Dhabi, the national news agency Wam reported. 

Sheikh Abdullah, who also holds the position of Deputy Prime Minister, pressed for the need to ensure the "safe, sustainable and unhindered flow of urgent aid into Gaza" highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In early March, Israel blocked the entry of all humanitarian aid into the region over disagreements with Hamas for a ceasefire extension.

During the talks, Sheikh Abdullah reaffirmed the UAE's unwavering commitment to supporting the Palestinians and noted it would spare no effort in extending assistance to meet their humanitarian needs. 

Sheikh Abdullah also highlighted the importance of avoiding further escalation of the conflict in the region and reiterated the urgent need to resume "negotiations to achieve comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution".

He also called for the international community to join efforts to fulfill the aspirations of the Palestinians for security, stability and a dignified life.

The ministers also discussed the growing bilateral relations between the two countries. Israel's Assistant Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs, Saeed Mubarak Al Hajeri, and UAE Ambassador to the State of Israel, Mohamed Mahmoud Al Khaja also attended the meeting.

This is the second meeting between the two ministers, with the first being held early January this year.