By Senior Partner Amit Acco |
The new UAE-Israel agreement is a full peace treaty. The Bahrain-Israel agreement is a “Declaration of Peace” in which the sides commit to establishing full diplomatic relations.
The two Gulf states become the third and fourth Arab nations to sign agreements with Israel, after Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994. The agreements will formalize the normalization of Israel’s already warming relations with the countries.
There has never been a case in which two countries sign a peace agreement with Israel simultaneously, so this is exciting for both sides.
During the Ceremony at the Whitehouse, The US president, Donald J. Trump said that yhe UAE and Bahrain will set up embassies in Israel and will cooperate with Israel in investment, tourism, direct flights, security, telecommunications, technology, energy, healthcare, culture, the environment, the establishment of reciprocal embassies, and other areas of mutual benefit. Trump also said:
“The peace agreement will open the door for Muslims from around the world to visit the holy places in Israel”
During the ceremony, Emirati Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, said:
“Today, we are already witnessing a change in the heart of the Middle East — a change that will send hope around the world,” Al Nahyan said.”
Bahrani Foreign Minister Abdullatif al-Zayani said
“Today is a truly historic occasion…A moment for hope and opportunity…Today’s agreement is an important first step and it’s now incumbent upon us…What was only dreamed of a few years ago is now achievable, and we can see before us a golden opportunity for peace, security, and prosperity for our region.”
Which Arab state next for Israel ties?
It is now expected that Sudan is likely to be the next country to follow in the footsteps of the UAE and Baharain. While Saudi Arabia and Oman, not oppose the deal, they have so far refused to normalize ties until Israel signs an internationally recognized peace accord with the Palestinians.
Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia has granted permission for all flights to and from Israel to use its airspace. This move significantly shortens the flying time between Tel Aviv and the Gulf, India and Far East.
