Just a few short years ago, residents of the United Arab Emirates were enthusiastic about the blossoming relationship between their country and Israel. The establishment of diplomatic ties through the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords brought hope for peace in the Middle East, with business ventures and friendly gestures like Emirati and Israeli women holding hands atop a Dubai skyscraper.
However, as Israel’s ongoing bombardment of Gaza stirs anger across the region, support for the accords among Emiratis is dwindling. Some who once championed the economic benefits of the deal have gone silent, while others fear speaking out publicly due to their authoritarian government’s history of cracking down on dissent.
While analysts believe neither Israel nor the UAE will walk away from the accords, the current trajectory of the conflict raises concerns about the future of the partnership. Emotions are running high in the Arab world, with growing criticism of Israel and its main ally, the United States, over the devastating impact of the Gaza bombardment.
Arab leaders with ties to Israel are reassessing their relationships, with Jordan recalling its ambassador and Egyptian officials expressing concerns about potential spillover effects from the conflict. The diplomatic chill has left the Israeli Embassy in the UAE as the lone functioning mission in the Arab world.
Despite mounting pressure, Emirati officials affirm their commitment to the relationship with Israel. The UAE government highlights efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza and facilitate medical treatment for injured Palestinians.
While the Abraham Accords remain intact, the nature of the relationship between Israel and the UAE is uncertain. The initial optimism has faded, giving way to a more pragmatic view of the challenges ahead.
The accords, announced in 2020, marked a significant shift for Israel in the region, yet cracks soon appeared as settlements expanded and political dynamics shifted. The relationship faces new obstacles amid the ongoing conflict and changing regional dynamics.
Emirati officials have responded to the crisis by condemning Israel’s actions and calling for a cease-fire, while also emphasizing the need for a viable pathway to a Palestinian state. Emirati views of the accords have soured, with a majority expressing negative sentiments about the deal’s impact on the region.
As tensions rise and Arab leaders reconsider their ties with Israel, the future of the Abraham Accords and broader regional stability hang in the balance. The conflict in Gaza has strained relationships and raised questions about the long-term viability of partnerships forged through diplomacy.