The Emiratis refused the Israeli offer – and will not establish an embassy in Jerusalem

Israel offered the United Arab Emirates to establish an embassy in Jerusalem, but Abu Dhabi rejected the proposal. The article notes that this is a sensitive step due to Jerusalem's status in the Muslim world, and that the very offer reflects the depth of the relationship between the countries, especially against the backdrop of Israeli assistance to the Emirates against Iran.

This evening (Tuesday) it was reported that Israel recently offered the United Arab Emirates to establish their embassy compound in Jerusalem, but Abu Dhabi politely declined the offer. The article notes that this is a not insignificant detail that reveals much about the relations between the countries. Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, but also the third holiest city in Islam. Establishing an Emirati embassy in the city would have been perceived in the Arab and Muslim world as political recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, and could have sparked controversy over the status of the holy sites. The very fact that Israel raised such a sensitive offer indicates the depth of the relationship and the level of trust between the countries, especially against the backdrop of Israeli assistance to the Emirates in the war against Iran, including the deployment of an Israeli defense system and personnel to operate it. A source familiar with the details says: "The focus was on deepening the activity, not just the location. The Emiratis' step is important and shows a desire for meaningful and long-term relations."