Israel and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to normalise relations exchange the suspension of Israeli plans to annex parts the West Bank. The historic breakthrough was announced a joint statement yesterday Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed Al Nahyan, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump. They expressed hope that the "historic breakthrough will advance peace the Middle East". Israel has had diplomatic relations its neighbours Egypt and Jordan decades, but until now, it has never had such a relationship any Gulf Arab state. Israel will "focus its efforts now on expanding ties with other countries the Arab and Muslim world".
The agreement is called the Abraham Accord. The three leaders behind it said: "This historic diplomatic breakthrough...is a testament to the bold diplomacy...vision...and courage the UAE and Israel to chart a new path that will unlock great potential the region." Mr Netanyahu called it a "historic day". However, he said the sovereignty the West Bank "remains the table". The UAE said the deal Israel was a "win diplomacy and the region". It added: "It is a significant advance Arab-Israeli relations that lowers tensions and creates new energy positive change." The Palestinian leadership called it a "betrayal" the Palestinian cause and the equivalent of being "sold out friends".
