UAE President Reassures Amid Health Concerns with Public Appearance
Emirati President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ) has publicly addressed recent speculation regarding his health with a meeting alongside US Senator Lindsey Graham in Abu Dhabi. The appearance, confirmed by video footage released by the Presidential Court on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, aims to dispel rumours that circulated following a now-deleted post from the Turkish presidency.
Senator Graham Dismisses Health Claims
Senator Graham, a prominent Republican voice in the US Congress, was unequivocal in his assessment of the President’s well-being. In a post on X, he stated, “To those who are perpetuating false narratives against the United Arab Emirates and President Sheikh [Mohamed bin Zayed] personally, you are full of it.” He further emphasized, “Not only is he alive, but he is likewise well and as sharp as I’ve ever seen him.” Photographs released by WAM, the UAE’s official news agency, corroborate this account, showing MBZ alongside Graham at Qasr Al Shati.
Strategic Partnership and Regional Security on the Agenda
The meeting between President Al Nahyan and Senator Graham focused on strengthening the strategic cooperation between the UAE and the United States. Discussions encompassed regional developments, security, and stability, as well as joint efforts to promote peace in the Middle East. Gulf News reported that the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to a partnership supporting mutual interests.
The Abraham Accords and Regional Dynamics
Senator Graham also used the opportunity to commend MBZ’s support for the Abraham Accords, the US-brokered agreements normalizing relations between Israel and several Arab states. The UAE was a key signatory to the accords in 2020, a move that drew condemnation from Palestinian leaders who viewed it as detrimental to their cause. The accords continue to be a significant factor in the evolving geopolitical landscape of the region.
Recent Health Rumours and Their Origins
The concerns regarding President Al Nahyan’s health surfaced earlier this week when Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan postponed a planned visit to Abu Dhabi. A subsequent post from the Turkish presidency, referencing a “health problem,” quickly spread on social media before being deleted. This sparked widespread speculation, prompting the UAE to release the images and video of the meeting with Senator Graham.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted concerns about the UAE President’s health?
Concerns arose after Turkish President Erdogan postponed a visit to Abu Dhabi and a now-deleted post from the Turkish presidency mentioned a “health problem.”
What was Senator Graham’s response to the health rumours?
Senator Graham strongly refuted the claims, stating that the President was “alive, well, and as sharp as I’ve ever seen him.”
What was discussed during the meeting between MBZ and Senator Graham?
The meeting focused on strengthening the strategic partnership between the UAE and the US, regional security, and efforts to promote peace in the Middle East.
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Explore further: Learn more about the Abraham Accords.
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