Israel-UAE Deal: A Shift in Regional Politics, a Blow to Palestinians

Strategic Insights -

As Benjamin Netanyahu addressed his nation, he hailed the Israeli-UAE deal as an "incomparably exciting moment". The agreement marks a significant shift in the region's geopolitics, with the UAE and Arab states viewing Iran as their primary enemy, not Israel. The deal affirms the strengthening of Abu Dhabi's network of alliances with Israel, fostering greater economic and security co-operation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Israeli-UAE deal is a key moment in the shift in regional politics, with several Arab states now viewing Iran as their prime enemy, not Israel.
  • The deal will strengthen Abu Dhabi's network of alliances with Israel, fostering greater economic and security co-operation.
  • The agreement was made possible due to shared fears over Iran's influence and interest in Israel's technological advances, particularly in security.
  • The deal has been met with criticism from Palestinians, who see it as an UAE betrayal and a reward for Israel's paused annexation of occupied territory.
  • The agreement has one glaring fault: it fails to address the core problem of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, instead offering recognition to Israel at no cost.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted that Israel's claim for sovereignty over occupied territory remains, despite the UAE's decision to normalise relations.

Statistics:

  • Israel's economy is facing a worsening crisis, with a significant impact on the country's international standing.
  • The deal comes as Netanyahu's coalition is unravelling, raising concerns about the stability of the Israeli government.
  • The UAE is the most influential Arab state to normalise relations with Israel, marking a significant shift in regional politics.
  • The deal has been met with widespread criticism from Palestinians, with 70% of Palestinians viewing the deal as a betrayal by the UAE (Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research, 2020).

Sources:

*/The New York Times/The

  • Benjamin Netanyahu's remarks on the Israeli-UAE deal, 13 August 2020
  • Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research. (2020). Palestinian Public Opinion Poll #56.