UAE Responds to Reports of Netanyahu's Pre-Oct. 7 Warning

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement Tuesday evening addressing media reports concerning a warning from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prior to the October 7th Hamas attacks. The ministry stated that the UAE government does not comment on media stories or speculation regarding discussions between government leaders. The statement emphasized that the UAE's engagement since October 7th has consistently focused on de-escalation, achieving regional stability, and preventing violence, characterizing this as the foundation of Emirati policy in dealing with regional and international developments.

The ministry clarified that Emirati and Israeli government entities have maintained open and direct lines of communication for over five years, and these contacts continue today. The statement affirmed that relevant intelligence information has been exchanged between the concerned parties when necessary and that this exchange remains ongoing, ensuring continued coordination on issues of mutual interest. This communication aims to reinforce the UAE's consistent stance of neutrality and avoidance of media speculation, prioritizing strategic goals of de-escalation and regional stability.

The UAE Foreign Ministry's statement serves as a clear response to media coverage, reflecting the country's commitment to a policy based on dialogue and coordination, separate from speculative reporting.