Yasser Arafat’s widow has been denounced by Palestinian leaders after backing Israel’s deal with the United Arab Emirates.

Suha Arafat issued an apology on social media to the UAE for the response of many Palestinians to the recognition of Israel.

In an interview with Israeli television, she said the Palestinian leadership had been wrong to oppose the deal, and claimed her late husband would have asked for help in dealing with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from the UAE leadership.

In an Instagram post, Ms Arafat, who now lives in Malta, wrote: “In the name of all the noble Palestinians I am apologising to the UAE people and leadership for the profanation and burning of their flag in Jerusalem …. and for insulting the symbols of the beloved UAE.”

On Monday an El Al Boeing 737 flight landed in Abu Dhabi – with a delegation of Israeli and American officials. It was allowed to cross Saudi Arabian airspace on its journey, which was also a first.

In her TV interview, the wife of the late Palestinian Liberation Organisation leader attacked those claiming the UAE had betrayed the Arab world.

“Enough with the slogans,” she said. “We collaborate with Israel, with Shin Bet and Mossad. Who are you kidding?”

She claimed Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas was directing a smear campaign against her.