In brief
This article examines the critical perspectives on the Abraham Accords, highlighting that while celebrated by some diplomats, the agreements largely overlooked deep-seated regional conflicts, particularly regarding the Palestinians.
In July 2025, a notable nomination from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the Norwegian Nobel Committee has sparked discussions regarding the effectiveness of the Abraham Accords. These agreements, signed in 2020 under the presidency of Donald Trump, aimed to establish diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab states, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco. Netanyahu referred to these deals as “breakthroughs” that have significantly advanced peace and stability in the region.However, the reality on the ground contradicts this optimistic narrative. As Netanyahu praised the accords in Washington, the Israeli military escalated its bombing campaigns in Gaza, showing no signs of de-escalation in the ongoing violence. Additionally, tensions remained high in Yemen, Sudan, and Iran, suggesting that the region was anything but peaceful.Scholars analyzing the situation contend that referring to the Abraham Accords as a “peace deal” is misleading. The fact remains that, prior to the accords, there was little to no direct conflict between Israel and the U.A.E. or Bahrain. Morocco had historically been uninvolved in Arab-Israeli hostilities, asserting its distance from the conflicts while extending diplomatic relations.Consequently, the Abraham Accords appear to sidestep the critical issue of the Palestinian struggle, promoting normalization between non-hostile nations while neglecting the profound rifts within the broader Middle Eastern landscape. Ultimately, while the treaties may have signed diplomatic milestones, they have not resulted in tangible peace—leaving unresolved conflicts simmering beneath the surface.
