One Step Closer to Peace in the Middle East

On September 15th 2020, President Trump presided over the signing of a Middle East peace agreement between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. The deal promises to normalize relations in business, tourism, scientific cooperation, and create full diplomatic ties between the countries. The treaty is also the foundation for a broader alignment against regional threats, especially from Iran.

The leaders from each country expressed positive remarks during the signing of the agreement. President Trump cast it as a historic deal, and believes that the treaty will set a precedent for other countries to join.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the day, “heralds a new dawn of peace.” He believes that the agreements would have been unimaginable a few years ago and that the countries will now be able to cooperate.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al Nahyan, the minister for foreign affairs and international cooperation for the united emirates, mentions that the deal will bring hope around the world. He also mentions that the agreement will enable them to support the Palestinian people. Similarly, Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani, the minister of foreign affairs of Bahrain, also mentions efforts to bring peace to the palestinian people and believes this is “an important first step in bringing about lasting peace and security.”

It is important to note the Palestinian reaction to the signing of the agreement between the countries. The Palestinians felt betrayed because they have been relying on Gulf Arab states to pressure Israel into giving them independence. During the signing of the agreement, rockets were being fired from Gaza into the southern cities of Israel, Ashdod and Ashkelon.

May we continue to see peace amongst Israel and its surrounding countries!