The US-brokered deal reflects Washington’s priorities in fostering regional partnerships against Iran and in upgrading Israel’s relationships in the Gulf (ostensibly as a step towards resolving the conflict with the Palestinians).
There is speculation an accord could be signed as early as next month, but this may be delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Washington will seek to strong-arm other Arab states, notably Sudan, Bahrain and Oman, into following the UAE’s example.
The agreement provides cover for Netanyahu to abort already troubled plans to annex parts of the West Bank.
Netanyahu’s exclusion of coalition partners and security officials from talks has raised further public concern over his trustworthiness.
In Israel, the deal remains overshadowed by preoccupations with the pandemic’s health and economic consequences.
