The United Arab Emirates operates as a discreet facilitator between Israel and Syria, eschewing traditional mediation labels.
Despite official denials, the UAE has established communication channels between these longtime adversaries.
Its quiet diplomacy creates a novel direction in regional conflict resolution that values practical results over public recognition.
Gulf States Find Their Own Voice
Gulf monarchies have carved out valuable niches in international conflict resolution.
Unlike major powers with vested interests, Gulf Cooperation Council states can talk to all parties involved in regional conflicts.
The UAE adopts a markedly different tack from its neighbours.
While Qatar thrives in high-profile mediation efforts, the UAE flies under the radar.
Subsequently, this understated approach helps build trust among hostile parties.
Gulf nations possess genuine "convening power" in global disputes.
They utilise extensive global connections to maintain dialogue channels until conditions ripen for direct engagement.
Secret Meetings Yield Careful Progress
The Syrian-Israeli talks began shortly after Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa visited Abu Dhabi mid-April.
Three meetings have taken place at a senior UAE official’s private residence.These gatherings brought Israeli academics with security backgrounds together with President al-Sharaa’s close aides. Emirati hosts provided lavish refreshments to create an atmosphere conducive to frank discussions.
Syrian Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa confirmed these back-channel negotiations.
“There are indirect negotiations via mediators to calm and contain the situation so matters don’t reach a point where both sides lose control,” al-Sharaa stated during a Paris press conference.
Official Denials Mask Pragmatic Reality
The UAE has steadfastly denied mediating these talks.
Lana Nusseibeh, UAE Assistant Foreign Minister, called claims of UAE mediation "categorically false."
This contradiction reveals how the UAE conceptualises its diplomatic function.
Rather than calling itself a mediator, the Emirates sees its role as facilitating connections without imposing solutions.
Such nuanced positioning allows the UAE to maintain credibility with all sides. The subtle distinction creates space for delicate negotiations without the burden of official expectations.
Syria Signals New Stance on Israel
The talks coincide with notable shifts in Syria’s approach to regional politics.
President al-Sharaa now refers to "the State of Israel" rather than "the Zionist entity" – a telling linguistic evolution.
Syrian representatives have told mediators that Iran has been “kicked out” of Syria. Additionally, Damascus arrested two senior Palestinian Islamic Jihad members.
Syrian officials have even messaged Washington that Syria "will not become a source of threat to any party, including Israel."
These actions suggest Damascus seeks to reset its regional position.
The war-weary country appears ready to explore new diplomatic avenues as it emerges from isolation.
UAE Access Creates Unique Opportunities
The UAE’s 2020 normalisation with Israel puts Abu Dhabi in a privileged position.Abu Dhabi maintains cordial ties with Damascus while building relations with Tel Aviv.
"The Gulf states have built trust by consistently proving their effectiveness. One success leads to another," notes Abdulkhaleq Abdulla, an Emirati columnist.
This standing enables the UAE to bring adversaries to the table. Abu Dhabi tackles conflicts where traditional powers have hit a brick wall.
Not Just Security Concerns
Initial meetings focused primarily on immediate security issues.
Syria requested breathing room for its new government to address internal challenges. The Syrian delegation raised concerns about Israeli airstrikes and border positions. Both sides aim to expand discussions to economic cooperation soon.
Future talks may include Israeli medical assistance and academic exchanges for Syrian students.
Syria’s humanitarian needs feature prominently in these discussions.
After years of devastating conflict, Damascus likely views normalisation as a pathway toward reconstruction and legitimacy.
Gulf Nations Drive Regional Diplomacy
Each Gulf state brings unique strengths to international engagement.
The UAE excels in quiet facilitation backed by aid efforts.
"The UAE is often the first responder to global crises, with unmatched expertise in delivering aid wherever needed," explained Abdulkhaleq Abdulla.
Results Matter More Than Recognition
The Israel-Syria talks reveal how UAE diplomacy prioritises outcomes over publicity.
In contrast, Western mediation efforts are often accompanied by media fanfare and formal ceremonies.
Abu Dhabi’s approach works because it provides all parties plausible deniability.
For Syria and Israel, whose citizens might oppose engagement, this discretion open space for exploration. The UAE recognises that in Middle Eastern diplomacy, quiet achievements often outlast public declarations.
By working behind the scenes, Emirati officials foster conditions for sustainable progress rather than fleeting headlines.
Middle East powers increasingly tackle international mediation with distinctive styles.
The UAE model offers lessons in pragmatic engagement amid regional tensions.
Its effort in bringing Syria and Israel together, however tentative, shows one thing; patience opens doors long thought sealed in Middle Eastern politics.
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