Analyzing Donald Trump's Celebration of the UAE-Israel Deal on August 13, 2020
On August 13, 2020, Donald Trump celebrated the historic agreement between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Israel with great enthusiasm. However, this celebration can be interpreted through various lenses, ranging from political maneuvering to genuine achievements in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
Is it for the Benefit of Trump?
Some conspiracy theories suggest that Trump is celebrating the deal to merely enhance his image and bolster his re-election campaign. Given his business interests in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain, there might be underlying commercial motives behind his celebration. The agreement, they argue, needs reassurance for his business investments in these regions. Iran, with its significant role in the region, still poses a challenge to these alliances, suggesting that the deal is more about alignment and less about genuine peace.
Vesting in Politics vs. Genuine Achievements
Perhaps, the more intriguing aspect is whether the agreement was brokered on his watch or represents a genuine achievement in Middle Eastern diplomacy. President Trump claimed to have brokered a deal with both Israel and the UAE, following a historic announcement in June 2020. Israel's president, Benjamin Netanyahu, was known for his aggressive stance towards the Palestinians at the time. Trump's celebrations might simply reflect the fact that he facilitated an agreement that eluded other presidents for over six decades.
Debunking the Nobel Peace Prize Controversy
The announcement of mutual recognition and the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize sparked a mix of skepticism and outrage. Both Netanyahu and Trump supported the nomination of the other for the prestigious award, despite ongoing violent actions against the Palestinians. This crass move has been criticized as hypocrisy, as they are among the world's worst contenders for peace. Such nominations highlight a disconnection between diplomatic achievements and real-world outcomes.
The Immediate Impact on the Region
The deal has significant implications for the region, including bringing Sunni tribes closer to Western influence. This development could make it harder for Iran to rally Sunni-majority states to support its ongoing support for Israel. However, the deal alone does not signify a definitive shift in the balance of power; it merely represents a step in a longer journey towards peace and stability.
Conclusion
The celebration of the UAE-Israel deal on August 13, 2020, is a multifaceted event, reflecting both political maneuvering and genuine diplomatic achievements. While the deal represents a historical milestone, its impact on the larger context of Middle East peace remains uncertain. What is clear is that significant challenges, particularly with Iran, still loom large in the region's future.