Political analysts in the UAE forecast that Kamala Harris, if elected President of the United States, will take a more proactive stance in resolving humanitarian crises in Middle Eastern conflict zones.
The prediction follows US President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, positioning Vice President Kamala Harris as a likely Democratic nominee. Experts in the UAE emphasize the country’s significant role in counterterrorism, regional stability, and security. They believe Harris will enhance the strategic partnership between the UAE and the US, bolstering defense and intelligence collaboration.
Dr. Kristian Alexander, Senior Fellow and Lead Researcher at the Rabdan Security & Defense Institute (RSDI) in Abu Dhabi, stated, “The UAE is a crucial partner in counterterrorism efforts, regional stability, and security. Harris is likely to maintain and possibly deepen this strategic relationship, continuing the trend of strong defense and intelligence cooperation. Under a Harris administration, the continuation of military sales and joint exercises could be expected.”
Alexander also suggested that Harris might prioritize expanding economic ties with the UAE. “This means focusing on sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure. This would align with her broader policy goals of fostering sustainable economic growth and innovation. Strengthening existing trade agreements and exploring new ones could be on the agenda, enhancing bilateral trade and investment flows between the two nations.”
Notably, Harris visited Dubai during COP 28 in December 2023, where she reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to leading the fight against the climate crisis and announced a $3 billion pledge to the Green Climate Fund to support developing countries in investing in resilience, clean energy, and nature-based solutions. President Sheikh Mohamed held discussions with her on various issues, emphasizing cooperation in renewable energy and sustainable development.
Dr. Sonakshi Ruhela, former program head at Curtin University Dubai, commented on Harris’s potential influence on the Israel-Palestine conflict. “Harris has spoken out regarding the plight and human rights of Palestinians and has repeatedly called for the release of hostages held by militant groups in Gaza. She could prove to be more sympathetic to the Palestinian cause than the Biden Administration. Ms. Harris is likely to play a more active role in ending the humanitarian crises in the conflict zones in the Middle East.”
Experts agree that Harris’s foreign policy approach might focus on maintaining traditional alliances while addressing humanitarian concerns and promoting diplomatic solutions. Dr. Kristian Alexander noted, “Her stance suggests a possible evolution in US policy towards a more nuanced and humanitarian-focused approach, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and engagement with Iran.”
Harris’s potential candidacy has also been endorsed by prominent figures, including former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Shamshad A. Khan, Assistant Professor of International Relations at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, highlighted the significance of this endorsement, suggesting that Harris could break the “glass ceiling” and become the first woman to reach the highest political post in the US.
Khan also pointed out that Harris’s mixed lineage and stance on various issues, including immigration, could appeal to a broader audience. However, he noted that the Indian diaspora in America might face a dilemma, with Kamala Harris representing one side and JD Vance, Trump’s VP nominee, with his Indian roots, representing the other. “Trump’s deep connection with Indian-Americans, especially the business community, and the recent assassination bid on him, has galvanized Republican support, making the outcome uncertain,” Khan added.
