The U.S., Israel, and the UAE held a meeting in Abu Dhabi to discuss post-war plans for Gaza, indicating Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s acknowledgment of the need for a governance strategy after the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Hosted by Emirati Foreign Minister Abdullah Bin Zayed, the meeting included U.S. representatives Brett McGurk and Tom Sullivan, and Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer along with senior defense officials.

The day before, UAE proposals were outlined by envoy Lana Nusseibeh, suggesting a temporary international mission in Gaza to address humanitarian needs, establish law and order, and prepare for governance.

The UAE expressed readiness to participate, provided the mission is invited by the Palestinian Authority, which must undergo reforms and appoint an empowered prime minister.

The Israeli government would need to involve the Palestinian Authority and agree to a two-state solution-based political process, Axios has reported.

The U.S. would lead this initiative. Both the Israeli and U.S. administrations, as well as the UAE embassy, declined to comment on the meeting.

The Emiratis aim for a solution excluding Hamas but have concerns about the Palestinian Authority’s current leadership.

The Biden administration has been urging Netanyahu to seriously discuss post-war plans, especially in light of efforts for a ceasefire and hostage deal.

Written by B.C. Begley