Friends of Israel Initiative Welcome the Normalization of Relations Between Israel and the UAE and Encourage Other Arab Countries To Follow

On August 13^th, on a trilateral declaration by President Trump, PM Netanyahu and the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed was announced the normalizations of diplomatic relations between the State of Israel and the United Arab Emirates. This is a bold move that will contribute without any doubt to the progression of peace through the entire region, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The decision taken by the three leaders should be categorized as historic. Not only because it is a clear departure from the recent past but, above all, because it may encourage a new dynamic where the constructive and pragmatic forces may benefit from direct, open and peaceful relations while, at the same time, making themselves stronger to deal with the radical forces that only seek destruction, domination and terror.

FOII was created a decade ago with the goal to promote a fair treatment of Israel and the normalization of Israel status in the world, including the Arab world. From day one we have been doing our best to achieve our vision and to accomplish our goal. In that sense, we cannot but celebrate this significant step. We do sincerely hope it will pave the way for others to follow. The sooner the better. The World is changing fast and the region, from the Levant to the Gulf, is also the arena of many changes. Normalizing relations with Israel can only help to deal with the troubling ones while promoting positive and beneficial changes.

We applaud the courage of the three leaders. With their shared vision they have proved that the old recipes applied year after year were not leading to any solution, on the contrary, they made any solutions impossible, and that only through new ways can the region move forward with realism to a durable and long-lasting peace.

For the first time ever, there is a new Middle East emerging, based on realities and not fantasies, promoting inclusion and cooperation and not rejection and violence. A new Middle East where Israel is granted the right to exist. We salute President Trump, PM Netanyahu and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed for having the vision, the courage and the wisdom to face the World and to work together for a better future.