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Arab Nations Face Growing Public Opposition Over Normalization with Israel

by Madison Thomas
6 comments
fokus keyword: Arab-Israeli Normalization

Amid Israel’s conflict with Hamas, Arab countries that have recently normalized or are contemplating enhancing their diplomatic ties with Israel are experiencing mounting public opposition urging the severance of these relations.

Mass protests have erupted in Moroccan cities such as Rabat, with thousands showing their solidarity for the Palestinian cause. Remarkably, even in Bahrain, where public demonstrations are usually not permitted, authorities allowed hundreds to gather last month outside the Israeli Embassy in Manama, showcasing their support for Palestinians.

These protests, which resonate with similar demonstrations throughout the Middle East, put governments in a difficult position, given their recent pursuits of fortified military and economic alliances with Israel.

Egypt, which has maintained a diplomatic relationship with Israel for several years, has also witnessed its citizens’ vocal dissent, with some even raising slogans like “Death to Israel.” Tunisia’s parliamentary body moved forward a proposal last week that seeks to make normalization with Israel illegal.

In nations like Morocco and Bahrain, the public’s ire is not just about the ties with Israel, but there is also a strong demand to revoke the agreements that ratified these ties, emphasizing the rift between official stances and public sentiment.

The Abraham Accords, facilitated by the U.S., were designed to garner wider acceptance of Israel within the Arab world. This led to commercial and military agreements with nations like Bahrain, Morocco, Sudan, and the United Arab Emirates from 2020 onward. Their leadership, along with American and Israeli representatives, portray these accords as a pathway to a transformed Middle East, where fortified relations promise peace and growth.

For Morocco, these accords were particularly significant as they resulted in both U.S. and Israeli acknowledgment of its sovereignty over the contested region of Western Sahara. However, the Moroccan Foreign Ministry chose not to comment on the accord-related queries or protests.

Furthermore, the accords facilitated Sudan’s removal from the U.S. list of states sponsoring terrorism, which was vital for its governing military junta struggling against a pro-democracy uprising and rampant inflation. Notably, both Sudan and the United Arab Emirates have not witnessed large-scale protests in relation to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The anticipation of a potential agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia has diminished, especially in light of the recent conflict and the subsequent pan-regional demonstrations, as Steven Cook, a seasoned researcher at the Council on Foreign Relations, conveyed to The Big Big News last month. Cook anticipates a hiatus in the normalization trend for the foreseeable future.

Critics of this normalization process believe that the governmental advantages accruing from these accords have not significantly swayed public opinion. Abouchitae Moussaif, a representative from Morocco’s Al Adl Wal Ihsane, which has historically supported Palestine, conveyed that their stance views Hamas as a resistance against colonization rather than as terrorists.

Interestingly, while Morocco has historically cracked down on anti-normalization activities, it has recently exhibited more leniency. Moussaif underscores this discrepancy, attributing the protests to a governmental initiative rather than a public one.

Zakaria Aboudahab, a scholar at Universite Mohammed V in Rabat, believes that while the demonstrations might not lead to the annulment of normalization with Israel, they serve as an outlet for public discontent.

Historically, since the uprisings of 2011, Bahrain has prohibited protests. However, there has been a recent relaxation, allowing demonstrations to resume.

With the escalation of the conflict, Arab leaders have transitioned from a general condemnation of violence to specifically critiquing Israel’s actions in Gaza. For instance, the United Arab Emirates initially condemned Hamas’ October assault, but later expressed concerns over Israel’s attacks in Gaza, especially after the strike on Jabaliya refugee camp. Similarly, Morocco’s Foreign Ministry started by denouncing civilian-targeted attacks but later attributed the escalation in violence to Israel, emphasizing its humanitarian aid endeavors in Gaza.

Last week, Morocco affirmed its commitment to Palestine, highlighting its recent aid contributions consisting of food, medical supplies, and water.

Contribution by Big Big News writer Jon Gambrell from Jerusalem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword: Arab-Israeli Normalization

What are the main reasons for public opposition in Arab nations regarding ties with Israel?

The primary reasons stem from Israel’s conflict with Hamas, which has ignited sentiments of solidarity for the Palestinian cause across various Arab nations.

Which countries are currently facing significant public opposition to their relations with Israel?

Morocco, Bahrain, and Egypt have witnessed substantial public demonstrations opposing their diplomatic ties with Israel. Tunisia is also considering legislation against normalization with Israel.

What was the purpose of the Abraham Accords?

The U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords were designed to secure broader recognition of Israel in the Arab world, leading to trade and military agreements with several Arab nations.

Have all countries that normalized relations with Israel faced backlash?

While countries like Morocco, Bahrain, and Egypt have seen public protests, others such as Sudan and the United Arab Emirates have not witnessed large-scale demonstrations against the Israel-Hamas war.

What are the consequences of the Abraham Accords for Morocco and Sudan?

For Morocco, the accords resulted in the U.S. and Israeli recognition of its sovereignty over the contested Western Sahara region. In the case of Sudan, the accords facilitated its removal from the U.S. list of states sponsoring terrorism.

How have Arab leaders reacted to the recent Israel-Hamas conflict?

Initially, many Arab leaders condemned violence in general terms. However, as the conflict intensified, specific critiques of Israel’s actions in Gaza emerged, with nations like the United Arab Emirates and Morocco expressing concerns over particular incidents.

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6 comments

Ella P November 2, 2023 - 11:00 am

its a complicated situation. Not sure if there’s a right answer. but i do hope for peace in the region soon. it’s been long overdue.

Reply
Tom N November 2, 2023 - 8:28 pm

Didn’t expect Bahrain to allow protests. Things must be serious over there. and what’s up with Tunisia’s new law? seems drastic.

Reply
Rebecca L November 2, 2023 - 11:32 pm

Why is it that the people’s voice and the govt’s actions are often not in sync? Is true democracy a myth or what?

Reply
Mike B November 3, 2023 - 1:18 am

Has anyone else noticed how this situation has been escalating? it’s concerning how some governments and public opinions differ so much…

Reply
Jenna K November 3, 2023 - 3:28 am

So the Abraham Accords were meant to make peace but seems like its causing more tension than ever before. idk what to think anymore.

Reply
Sam T November 3, 2023 - 5:18 am

I always felt that politics in the middle east is like walking on a thin ice. Things can get heated up real quick. this article just confirms it.

Reply

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