Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen shared some exciting news about the potential for more Muslim countries to establish diplomatic relations with Israel. Cohen believes that “six or seven” Muslim nations may follow in the footsteps of the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan by joining the Abraham Accords, further enhancing diplomatic ties with Muslim nations.
While Cohen didn’t reveal the names of these countries, he did mention that discussions were underway with Muslim nations that currently do not have formal diplomatic ties with Israel. This shows that Israel is actively working to build diplomatic ties with Muslim nations and expand its influence in the region.
This development comes on the heels of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address at the UN General Assembly, where he hinted at Israel’s growing closeness to Saudi Arabia. Netanyahu’s speech also touched upon Israel’s territorial claims in the West Bank, Gaza, and Syria’s Golan Heights.
He emphasized a “limited window of opportunity” for securing new agreements, possibly referring to the upcoming 2024 US election season. Netanyahu expressed a willingness to extend benefits to Palestinians while ensuring Israel’s continued peace and security.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments, suggesting that a normalization deal is indeed on the horizon. However, he stressed that such an agreement would depend on the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
These recent developments indicate a positive shift in the Middle East’s diplomatic landscape. Israel is making strides in building diplomatic ties with Muslim nations. The Abraham Accords, which already include the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, may soon welcome six or seven more countries.
The specific countries considering diplomatic relations with Israel remain confidential for now. This secrecy allows for discreet negotiations and prevents potential roadblocks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s UN speech emphasized Israel’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic circle. He also discussed territorial claims and the importance of timing.
Netanyahu’s mention of a “limited window of opportunity” suggests that there’s a sense of urgency in these diplomatic endeavors. The timing may be related to the upcoming 2024 US election season.
Israel is open to providing benefits to Palestinians as part of these agreements. This approach aims to balance Israel’s security with efforts to improve the lives of Palestinians while continuing to build diplomatic ties with Muslim nations.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s support for normalization hinges on the creation of an independent Palestinian state. This condition reflects broader regional aspirations for peace and the significance of diplomatic ties with Muslim nations in the process.
Muslim countries joining the Abraham Accords and establishing diplomatic relations with Israel is a promising development for regional stability and cooperation. As these negotiations progress, the world will be watching closely, hoping for lasting peace in the Middle East.
