Trump Skips Israel: Netanyahu Misses Critical Opportunity
Overview of Trump’s Middle East Visit
A recent analysis by Dr. Shay Har-Zvi, head of international relations and Middle Eastern studies at Reichman University, emphasizes the significant impact of President Trump’s recent visit to the Gulf states on regional dynamics and Israel’s position. Har-Zvi contends that the unprecedented economic agreements signed during Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE reflect a strategic pivot that Israel has regrettably failed to capitalize on.
Economic Agreements and Their Broader Implications
According to Dr. Har-Zvi, the economic deals initiated by Trump signify a shift towards prioritizing economic relations and agreements above all. “It would be a mistake to view the outcomes of this visit solely through an economic lens,” he stated. The agreements span crucial areas like defense, energy, and technology, potentially reshaping relationships in the Middle East and beyond.
If these agreements materialize, they could deepen the alliance between the U.S. and Gulf states, particularly against the backdrop of increasing competition with China and a direct message to Iran regarding U.S. commitment to Gulf State security, especially as discussions about a potential nuclear deal with Iran unfold.
Missed Opportunities for Israel
While the evolving cooperation between the U.S. and Gulf nations could be beneficial for Israel, the immediate impression is start of lost opportunities. Har-Zvi argues that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu missed a unique chance to leverage Trump’s visit to pursue a resolution to the ongoing conflict and recover hostages. He posits that such a move could have greatly advanced normalization processes with Saudi Arabia and opened doors for historic summits involving Trump, the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and potentially even Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara.
“The absence of Israel from the high-profile agreements and recognition showcases the widening rift between Netanyahu and Trump,” Dr. Har-Zvi noted. The symbolic act of Trump bypassing Israel during this visit is a marked contrast to eight years earlier, when he visited Israel after Saudi Arabia.
The Regional Impact of U.S. Relations
The implications of this dynamic extend far beyond bilateral relations. With Trump indicating a willingness to tackle humanitarian issues in Gaza, the regional perception of U.S. dealings could shift, suggesting that countries might pursue agreements with the U.S. independent of Israeli interests. This notion could undermine Israel’s traditional position that any U.S. engagement in the region must go through it first.
As Dr. Har-Zvi warns, “Israel’s isolation could deepen if it continues to overlook engagement opportunities born from the changing political landscape. The pressure on Netanyahu to reassess his approach has never been more critical.”
The Path Forward for Israel
In conclusion, Dr. Har-Zvi urges Israel not to let this strategic moment pass by. He stresses the urgent need for a shift in policy to end the conflict, which could facilitate the return of the 58 hostages currently held by Hamas. Beyond this immediate goal, resolving the situation opens pathways to stronger ties with Arab nations, allowing for collaborative efforts to rebuild Gaza and potentially establish a governance alternative to Hamas.
Finally, avoiding another miscalculation could prevent deeper isolation and maintain essential relationships as Israel faces ongoing security threats, particularly from Iran. Adapting to these new realities is crucial for Israel’s strategic interests in a rapidly changing Middle Eastern landscape