Israel Continues to Gain Alliances Through US Deals

Israel Continues to Gain Alliances Through US Deals

The strengthening of former diplomatic ties and the establishment of new ones have poised Israel for greater security amongst its regional counterparts. As Israel’s evolving role in global politics is continuously being shaped by the policies of the countries around it, the ardent support by the US has allowed for this nation to gain more legitimacy in the eyes of its former enemies.

New Emerging Alliances for Israel

Whether it be national defense, trade embargoes, or abundance of military technology, Israel’s capabilities and tactics are based around the imposing threat of its neighbors. Yet the establishment of new relations is expected to significantly subdue some of the hostilities throughout the region, while  assuring the provocation of others.

Thus far,  the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, Bhutan, and Morocco have formally established ties with Israel, supplemented by Turkey appointmenting an ambassador to Israel after particularly tumultuous relations since 2010.This renewing of ties is not only elemental in providing affirmation of Israel’s status as an independent state  from countries of the Arab world, but it has put Palestinian territory and inhabitants at ease. In response, Palestinians have voiced concerns over an abandonment of their cause, and will continue to be affected as Israel grows more economically and strategically influential in the region as a result of its successful  foreign policy initiatives. Navigating these new foreign alliances has been done with great care, nevertheless it certainly appears  that Israel, and the US by default, are ameliorating and solidifying their ties and influence globally, while inflicting damage to mutual competitors such as China and Iran.

The Price of Recognition

Israel’s establishment and cooperation in solidifying ties has come at a significant price, much of which has been covered by the US. For instance, Sudan has received a great amount of financial compensation and removal from the state sponsored terrorism list, while the UAE, received a generous 23USD billion arms package. The price of withholding ties with Israel in conjunction to the benefits of cooperation clearly delineates a change in objectives – furnished by fatigue due to  the lack of progress in a Palestine-Israeli cooperation. Concurrently, these are some of the same countries which agreed with the principles of the 1967 Arab League summit: which outlined the three principles of “no peace with Israel, no recognition of Israel, no negotiations with Israel”

Consequently, relations with Israel will benefit those who establish ties, particularly economically, with increases in accessibility to new technologies, strengthened partnership with the US, and the ability to be better connected to one another. Regardless of the benefits countries receive, Israel will be the one ultimately profiting from increased security and alliances — simultaneously  weakening Iran’s regional influence. The strengthening of relations with Israel is likely to sow more benefits than the possible damage done to those opposed.

Proceeding with Caution

It is essential for Israel to remain vigilant in protecting itself as countries move cautiously towards announcing their foreign policy plans. Historically, several countries have displayed a growing warmth towards establishing ties with Israel, but soon-after these ties are abandoned. However, these new diplomatic ties surely carry a bit more weight  due to their being supported by US assistance –  mediating and appeasing these countries’ demands. The next steps these countries take will be prudent and not without careful consideration of their past tensions with Israel. 

Losers and Winners 

While Israel continues to secure alliances in the region, the US might be furthering tensions in the deals that they are offering. Specifically, the recognition of the Sahrawi state under Moroccan sovereignty has instigated further tensions with the Polisario, a resistance group seeking autonomy, stating that they will continue with their cause. Consequently, the unilateral decision by the US to instill Moroccan sovereignty has been met with scrutiny from countries like Algeria and Russia. Nevertheless, this move further empowers Morocco, who will also benefit from the newly allowed flights between it and Israel, which may lead to increased tourism in the regions.

Looking to the Future 

As a result of these new relations, the countries that choose to join in cooperating with Israel prove integral in continuing to deepen US-Israeli power dynamics and transform partnerships in the Arab world. While several of the countries have reaffirmed their sentiment and commitment to the Palestinian cause, these countries are simultaneously benefitting from affirming Israel’s status as a state, and will continue to financially profit from this situation. These benefits have already become evident in the form of arms deals and US affirmation as an ally.  Predictably, Saudi Arabia is the country to look for in the near future. While it has stated that it is not yet ready to establish these relations, in doing so it would be a pivotal moment in Israeli relations with Arab states, and would encourage other countries to follow suit. 

More Certainty This Time Around

Both the timing and sheer number of countries backing Israel at this moment are truly significant in strengthening the legitimacy of the Israeli state and furthering the US’s influence around the world. As more countries are expected to follow, Israel and the US will continue to work together to meet the demands of those countries that are skeptical about taking that next step of affirmation. Yet, it is certain that there is power in numbers. The fact that so many countries have altered their policies to work amicably with Israel, and plan to further profit from Israel’s capabilities, bodes well for the future stability of these more recent positive relations. Whether due to the economic struggles caused by the pandemic, or the lack of significant progress in recognition of Palestine, it is less likely at this point that these established relations will collapse as they had before. 

 

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