Trump’s Efforts to Expand Abraham Accords

President Donald Trump is working to broaden the Abraham Accords, aiming to bring more Arab nations into a normalization agreement with Israel. This step is seen as crucial for balancing power in the Middle East.

The Abraham Accords have been a significant achievement in Trump’s foreign policy, successfully normalizing relations between Israel and the UAE, Sudan, Morocco, and Bahrain. Although Trump faces challenges in attracting additional signatories, experts believe that bringing more Arab nations on board could create a solid barrier against Iran and potentially foster stability in the region for many years.

“The landscape of the Middle East has shifted,” remarked Shoshana Bryen from the Jewish Policy Centre. “Israel stands as a strong ally, not Iran. Iran’s influence seems to be dwindling, while previously neutral countries like Jordan and Iraq are moving closer to Israel.”

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has indicated that the Trump administration intends to extend the deal, hinting at a “major announcement” regarding new countries joining the Abraham Accord in an upcoming CNBC interview.

Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the Abraham Accords could influence other Arab nations to follow suit. However, reaching an acceptable resolution to the ongoing Israeli-Hamas conflict in Gaza is viewed as a prerequisite for this involvement. “If Saudi Arabia agrees, others are likely to soon follow,” Noron observed. But she added that peace efforts in Saudi Arabia must be resolved first before any concrete moves can occur.

Recently, Israel accepted a US proposal for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, although Hamas has yet to agree. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists Hamas must be dismantled, regardless of ceasefire talks.

Meanwhile, the US has lifted sanctions on Syria to promote stability, and is exploring normalizing relations with the country. The Trump administration’s approach towards Syria has evolved significantly since the downfall of Bashar al-Assad, with efforts to support the new interim government led by Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Trump sees Syria as a potential key partner in the expansion of the Accord. However, significant stability concerns linger regarding the new Syrian government, making full normalization a complicated goal. There are potential benefits for Syria in strengthening ties with the US and maintaining a stable border, but challenges remain.

One major sticking point in relations between Syria and Israel is the status of the Golan Heights, which Israel considers its territory. Some reports suggest that Syria may not press for complete control over the area, which could simplify peace negotiations.

Lebanon presents a different landscape for potential agreements, as Israel and the US explore options amidst existing tensions with Hezbollah. Although these extremist groups have been somewhat weakened by Israeli actions, the path towards normalization still faces hurdles.

Overall, a revitalized Abraham Accord may help facilitate the US’s shift towards Asia, fostering long-term regional stability. “It’s like a parent empowering their child to stand on their own; we’re not abandoning them, just promoting independence,” Noron remarked.