Economist Podcasts Team-building exercise: America’s Middle East diplomacy
Aug 27, 2020
Joining the discussion is Greg Karlstrom, a Middle East correspondent in Beirut, who dives into the historic Israel-UAE diplomatic agreement. He examines the strategic dynamics that made this normalization possible and its broader implications for U.S. diplomacy in the region. Greg also shares insights on how this shift may impact the Palestinian cause amidst changing political landscapes. The conversation highlights the necessity of effective communication and collaboration among nations to foster stability in the Middle East.
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UAE-Israel Relations
- The UAE and Israel's new diplomatic agreement is the first in 26 years between an Arab state and Israel.
- Shared concerns about Iran and Turkey motivated this public acknowledgment of years of quiet ties.
F-35 Controversy
- The UAE expects to purchase F-35 fighter jets as part of the agreement.
- This has sparked controversy, as Israel was meant to be the sole Middle Eastern recipient under the QME doctrine.
Expanding the Alliance
- The Trump administration aims to bring more Arab states, like Bahrain, into similar agreements with Israel.
- Formalizing this alliance could strengthen regional stability against Iran.
