US President Donald Trump on September 15 hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) & Bahrain for the signing of the historic Abraham Accord. It is the first Arab-Israeli peace deal in 26 years. “We are here to change the course of history,” Donald Trump said moments before the accord was signed at the South Lawns of the White House. UAE was represented by Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed and Bahrain by Foreign Minister Abdullatif Al Zayani. The Arab Accord, essentially bilateral agreements with Israel, does not mention the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The president pointed out that these were the only two peace deals between Israel and the Arab States in more than a quarter of a century. Egypt was the first Arab State to sign a peace deal with Israel in 1979. Jordon signed a peace pact in 1994. As per the agreements, the UAE and Bahrain will establish embassies, exchange ambassadors, cooperate and work together with Israel across a range of sectors, including tourism, trade, healthcare and security. Netanyahu described the accord as a "pivot of history", heralding a new dawn. Foreign Minister Zayed said the UAE is witnessing a change in the Middle-East, one that gives hope around the world. Foreign Minister Zayani said peace between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the State of Israel is a step on the road to genuine and lasting security and prosperity. Soon after the signing, the White House, in a statement, said the deal will strengthen peace in the region, giving Muslims increased access to the Al Aqsa Mosque. Trump, seeking re-election in the November 3 presidential election against his Democratic Party rival, Joe Biden, is hoping that the two major diplomatic deals would help him in the polls.
