Why some Arab states side with Israel | Mapped Out

Summary

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Q & A

What was the initial stance of Arab countries towards the creation of Israel?

Arab countries and Palestinians were strongly opposed to the creation of Israel, rejecting the UN partition plan in 1947. They viewed the establishment of Israel as a threat to the region, leading to the first Arab-Israeli war in 1948.

Why did some Arab countries eventually shift their stance towards Israel?

Over time, Arab countries shifted their stance towards Israel due to changing geopolitical dynamics, including security concerns, economic interests, and the desire for strong ties with the United States, particularly in response to the growing threat posed by Iran.

How did Egypt and Jordan first establish peace with Israel?

Egypt and Jordan were the first Arab countries to sign peace treaties with Israel. Egypt made peace after the Camp David Accords in 1978, while Jordan followed suit in 1994, both seeking economic benefits and security assurances, particularly from the US.

What role did the United States play in the peace agreements between Arab countries and Israel?

The United States played a crucial role in brokering peace agreements between Israel and Arab countries. The US provided economic aid and security assurances, especially to Egypt, in exchange for peace deals. The Abraham Accords, signed by the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, were also largely driven by US diplomatic efforts.

How did the war in Gaza impact the normalization of relations between Arab countries and Israel?

The war in Gaza in 2023 put a significant strain on the normalization efforts between Arab countries and Israel. While some countries maintained relations with Israel, the violence in Gaza made it politically difficult for other Arab nations to engage further with Israel, particularly due to public opposition and solidarity with Palestinians.

What is the significance of the Abraham Accords in the context of Arab-Israeli relations?

The Abraham Accords, signed in 2020, marked a historic shift in Arab-Israeli relations, with the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan normalizing ties with Israel. This agreement paved the way for economic cooperation, trade, and diplomatic engagement, underpinned by shared concerns over regional security and the influence of the United States.

How did the fear of Iran influence Arab-Israeli relations?

The fear of Iran's growing influence in the Middle East, particularly its support for armed groups and its nuclear ambitions, drove some Arab countries to seek closer relations with Israel. These nations viewed Israel as a crucial ally in countering Iran's regional aspirations, resulting in a more pragmatic approach to normalization.

What was the response of Arab countries when Iran attacked Israel in 2023?

In 2023, when Iran launched a retaliatory attack on Israel, several Arab countries, including Jordan, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, indirectly supported Israel by allowing US forces to operate from their bases. This marked a significant, albeit discreet, collaboration between Arab states and Israel against a common Iranian threat.

Why is it difficult for Arab countries to publicly support Israel despite the normalization agreements?

Public support for Israel is challenging for Arab governments due to widespread hostility towards Israel among their populations, many of whom view Israel's treatment of Palestinians as unjust. Leaders are walking a tightrope, trying to balance security and economic interests with public opinion and solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

What is the future outlook for Arab-Israeli relations in light of the ongoing conflicts in Gaza?

The future of Arab-Israeli relations remains uncertain, as the ongoing conflict in Gaza complicates efforts toward normalization. While some countries continue their relations with Israel, it is politically challenging for others to deepen ties without significant progress on the Palestinian issue. However, there remains hope for a sustainable solution in the future.