Why is it in the news?

• This week marks an important milestone for West Asia and North Africa: three years since the signing of the Abraham Accords between Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain, under the auspices of the U.S. government.

More about the news

• The Abraham Accords signed between Israel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain three years ago, with Morocco joining later in 2020.
• The agreements aimed to promote stability in West Asia and have led to a new era of normalization and peace in the region.
• Increased trade between Israel and West Asian countries, as well as a surge in tourism, are notable outcomes of the Accords.
• The Accords have benefited the Indian diaspora in the Gulf through improved connectivity, including direct flights between the UAE, Israel, and Bahrain.
• They have also strengthened Israel’s relations with neighbouring countries, such as Jordan, leading to agreements on energy and water supply.
• The Accords have facilitated economic opportunities for India, with collaborations between UAE, Israel, Bahrain, the U.S., and Indian companies.
• The formation of the I2U2 Group, focusing on joint investments in critical areas, is a result of the Accords.
• Youth delegations and educational exchanges have been encouraged, fostering bonds and understanding among young leaders.
• The Accords have promoted cultural exchange, with initiatives like Holocaust education being integrated into UAE’s school curriculum.
• India plays a significant role in these partnerships, collaborating on various shared interests, including pandemic recovery, trade, climate change, and international security.

Abraham Accords

• TheAbraham Accord between Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain is mediated by the USA.
  • It is the first Arab-Israeli peace deal in 26 years.
• As per the agreements, the UAE and Bahrain will establish:
  • Embassies and exchange ambassadors.
  • Working together with Israel across a range of sectors, including tourism, trade, healthcare and security.
• The Abraham Accords also opens the door for Muslims around the world to visit the historic sites in Israel and to peacefully pray at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, the third holiest site in Islam.