The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has tested the stability of the Abraham Accords, impacting various nations’ relations with Israel and complicating diplomatic efforts across the Middle East. In this article, we explore the evolving situation, with a focus on Morocco’s stance and Sudan’s renewed ties with Iran.
The Arab League’s Response:
Arab League foreign ministers have convened to address the escalating Israeli aggression in Gaza. While condemning the violence from all sides, the league aims to mediate and prevent further bloodshed. Historically, Cairo has played a key role in mediating between Israel and Hamas. Egyptian officials had warned of a potential escalation in Gaza, a warning disputed by Israel. The conflict has already claimed the lives of over 1,000 Israelis and 800 Palestinians, prompting global concerns.
African Nations’ Reactions:
Among African nations, Kenya and Morocco, the current chair of the Arab League, have been the most vocal in denouncing the recent attack by Hamas. The African Union’s chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, highlights the denial of Palestinian fundamental rights as the core cause of the Israeli-Palestinian tension.
The Abraham Accords’ Role:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has prioritized strengthening the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords. However, this agreement, while reducing official hostility towards Israel among signatory nations, has had limited impact on pro-Palestinian sentiment across the Middle East. The unilateral decision by the African Union to restore Israel’s observer status sparked controversy, leading to Israel’s delegate being removed from the African Union summit.
Sudan’s Diplomatic Complexities:
Sudan’s relations with Israel have been complicated by a devastating internal conflict. Recently, Sudan agreed to restore diplomatic ties with Iran, which is aligned with Hamas. This move follows Sudan’s 2016 decision to sever diplomatic ties with Iran after the storming of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Tehran.
Morocco’s Dilemma:
Morocco has faced domestic opposition due to its strong support for Israel. The normalization of ties between the two nations, coupled with recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara, has caused internal dissent. Morocco’s Islamist Justice and Development Party praised the Hamas attack as a “natural and legitimate reaction to daily violations.”
The Linkage with Western Sahara:
Morocco’s monarchy has sought to associate its conflict in Western Sahara with the Israel-Hamas-Iran dynamics, suggesting ties between the Polisario Front, Algeria, and Iran. However, these claims lack substantial evidence and are contested by experts. This linkage has made it challenging for Moroccans to openly oppose Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories.
The Israel-Hamas conflict continues to test the Abraham Accords and influence Middle East diplomacy. As the conflict intensifies, it becomes evident that the Abraham Accords alone will not bring peace to the region. The situation underscores the complex interplay between regional politics, international relations, and domestic considerations for the nations involved.
