Herzog Calls to Strengthen Ties with UAE Amid Regional Tensions

President Isaac Herzog has urged Israel to reinforce its relationship with the United Arab Emirates, even as tensions rise across the Middle East following recent Israeli strikes on Hamas leaders in Qatar.

Speaking at a national memorial ceremony honoring former prime ministers Shimon Peres and Moshe Sharett, Herzog emphasized the importance of preserving Israel’s international partnerships despite disagreements.

“There are countless countries where, alongside disagreements, Israel has extensive and significant ties,” Herzog said at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem. “We must not forsake our ties. We must not burn our bridges.”

His remarks come after the UAE summoned Israel’s deputy ambassador in protest of the strikes and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s comments regarding Qatar. The UAE, a key US ally and the most prominent Arab state to normalize ties with Israel under the Abraham Accords, has consistently framed Qatar’s stability as integral to Gulf security.

Arab and Islamic leaders are scheduled to convene in Doha on Monday to rally support for Qatar. The diplomatic friction highlights the delicate balance Israel must maintain with its regional partners.

At the same time, Herzog noted that Israel faces a level of hostility unlike anything in its past and must therefore utilize “all tools, on all fronts” to defend itself. While the strikes have provoked criticism abroad, they remain widely supported by the Israeli public.

Herzog also underscored the value of Israel’s broader alliances, singling out the United States and “countless other countries” that, even amid disagreements, share deep connections with Israel and often include strong pro-Israel communities eager to hear the country’s voice.

“We are not to accept the isolation our enemies seek to impose upon us,” the president stressed, urging Israel to expand its efforts in diplomacy and public outreach.

Herzog’s message highlights Israel’s dual approach: standing firm against terror while strengthening ties with allies who recognize the Jewish state’s rightful place in the region and the world. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for more insights from Israel.