UAE to work with new US government over regional issues

“The UAE will work closely with the Biden administration on a comprehensive approach to Middle East peace and stability,” the ambassador said in the post.

The UAE ambassador to the US, Yousef Al Otaiba, said on Wednesday that the United Arab Emirates anticipated a review of current policies by the new US administration, welcoming joint efforts to de-escalate tensions and for renewed regional dialogue, according to a statement posted on the Embassy Twitter account.

“The UAE will work closely with the Biden administration on a comprehensive approach to Middle East peace and stability,” the ambassador said in the post.

The administration of President Joe Biden has temporarily paused some pending arms sales to US allies in order to review them, a US State Department official said on Wednesday.

Israeli leaders played down on Thursday a possible Biden administration review of US arms sales to Gulf states.

Asked by reporters if the review might set back Israel’s efforts to build up relations with the UAE and other Arab countries, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: “I don’t think so. I think we have passed the point of no-return.”

“Everyone understands that there are huge advantages here. It’s peace in exchange for peace ... I think it’ll move ahead.”