The recent news break revolves around Bahrain and Israel marking a significant step in their relationship by signing a collective announcement on the initiation of diplomatic, peaceful and friendly relations. This important declaration also includes several memorandums of understanding encompassing areas of joint benefit.
Bahrain’s Stance
Known for its open politics and civil society movements, Bahrain has proven to be dynamic, despite experiencing a diminishing of rights over the past decade. The decision to streamline ties hails from the country’s commitment towards endorsing the principles of tolerance within a region whose populace has been tormented by persistent wars and conflicts.
Historic Context
The United Arab Emirates and Bahrain have recently emerged as the third and fourth Arab nations respectively, to consent to the normalization of ties with Israel. This follows Israel’s agreements with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994. Within the framework of this agreement, Israel is expected to suspend its intentions to annex substantial sections of the occupied West Bank.
West Bank – The Contested Region
The West Bank, a prime area wedged between Israel and Jordan, and home to the de facto administrative capital of Palestine, Ramallah, fell under Israeli rule following the Six-day Arab-Israeli war in 1967. Over time, Israel has established settlements in this territory.
The US Factor
The deal not only serves as the second agreement in 2020 following the Israel-UAE Peace Deal facilitated by the USA, but also brings diplomatic triumph to the US President, Donald Trump, prior to the Presidential election. It bolsters UAE’s reputation in the US, which was previously damaged due to its participation in the Yemen war.
Saudi Arabia’s Stance
Despite indications of reconciliation, Saudi Arabia has clarified its position of abstaining from normalizing ties unless the Palestinian issue is resolved.
Potential Concerns
The deal has sparked concerns especially amongst Palestinians, who previously relied on Arab support in their quest for independence. While the deal puts a halt to Israel’s annexation plans of the West Bank, it fails to meet the Palestinian demand for Arab governments to refrain from normalizing ties with Israel until an autonomous Palestinian state is realized. The agreement has also ignited fears of widening Shia-Sunni rifts and potential violence in the region.
Indian Interests in West Asia
From a geopolitical vantage point, West Asia holds immense importance in international affairs due to its strategic location and proximity to key continents and nations. The region possesses colossal energy resources and trade routes that connect different parts of the world. Additionally, the region holds significance for India due to the sizeable contribution of Indian expatriates to the local labour markets and the considerable remittances received by India from the region.
Way Forward
For long-standing peace, a balance between Shia and Sunni communities and Iran and Arab entities is crucial. Although the US is a dominant power in the Middle East, Russia has successfully carved out a space for itself. Moreover, China’s recent indications of increased involvement suggest the possibility of a changed geopolitical arrangement in the Middle East. Given these changes, India needs to strategize effectively to ensure its influence in this region.
Last Modified: February 9, 2024