S. Arabia’s stability is paramount

The UAE’s support for Saudi efforts to find the truth about journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s murder not only shows the standing the kingdom has in the region, but also the friendship between the two countries. No efforts to destabilise Saudi Arabia will be tolerated as this is a strategic, military, and economic partnership. It goes to prove the two countries are on the same page when dealing with common issues that threaten the GCC. Ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia are built on long-standing trust to boost Arab unity in good times and bad. Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s statement reflects that level of trust between the two countries.

Riyadh has said it will investigate and take action against Khashoggi’s killers, and it would be in the interest of all to wait for the findings. The US has been mature to let Saudi Arabia do its own probe into the incident. What must be understood here is that the journalist’s murder must not be used by other countries to sow instability and discord between friends and allies in the Gulf. Riyadh is the world’s leading oil exporter and a bulwark against extremism and the spread of terror. It is a pillar of stability in the Middle East, a reliable ally and friend to the West. That must not be forgotten in the rush to point fingers and apportion blame. The UAE has been a voice of reason throughout this crisis. On Friday, it cautioned against jumping to conclusions while pointing to the larger picture that was pegged on security. The journalist’s killing was condemnable and the killers must be brought to justice. Riyadh is taking action against the perpetrators and it is important to let the law take its course. Saudi King Salman, who is also the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, is firm that investigating agencies will be allowed to do their job. The king’s commitment must be respected and it would be wise for some sections of the media to avoid another round of speculations that only muddy the waters.