United States is working to expand relations between Israel and other Arab nations and they wish to do it via Abraham Accords, and hope to restoring ties that can be leveraged to advance progress on the Israeli and Palestinian conflict.

United States work to expand ties between Israel and Arab nations

Najla Bouden Romdhane has been appointed Tunisia's first woman Prime Minister. She will also be the Arab World's first woman leader. What's her story? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas| Najla Bouden Romdhane: First woman leader in the Arab World

Iraq hosted a regional summit aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East while emphasising the Arab country’s new role as a mediator.

Iranian, Gulf Arab officials meet in Baghdad

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced plans on Tuesday to launch a second national airline as part of a broader strategy to turn the kingdom into a global logistics hub as it seeks to diversify from oil. 
 
The creation of another flag carrier would catapult Saudi Arabia into the fifth rank globally in terms of air transit traffic, official state media reported, without giving details on when and how the airline would be created. 
 
Prince Mohammad has been spearheading a push for Saudi Arabia, the biggest Arab economy and the largest country in the Gulf geographically, to boost non-oil revenues to about 45 billion riyals ($12.00 bn) by 2030. 
 
Making the kingdom a global logistics hub, which includes the development of ports, rail and road networks, would increase the transport and logistics sector's contribution to gross domestic product to 10% from 6%, state news agency SPA said. 
 
"The comprehensive strategy aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub connecting the three continents," Prince Mohammed was quoted as saying in the SPA report. 
 
"This will help other sectors like tourism, haj and umrah to achieve their national targets." 
 
The addition of another airline would increase the number of international destinations from Saudi Arabia to more than 250 and double air cargo capacity to more than 4.5 million tonnes, the SPA report said. 
 
With current flag bearer Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia), the kingdom has one of the smallest airline networks in the region relative to its size. Saudia has struggled with losses for years and like global peers, has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. 
 
Local media reported earlier this year that the kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund, (PIF), planned to build a new airport in Riyadh as part of the new airline launch, without giving further details. 
 
The fund is the main vehicle for boosting Saudi Arabian investments at home and abroad as the young prince, known in the West as MbS, seeks to diversify the kingdom’s oil-heavy economy through his Vision 2030 strategy. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced plans on Tuesday to launch a second national airline as part of a broader strategy to turn the kingdom into a global logistics hub as it seeks to diversify from oil.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced plans on Tuesday to launch a second national airline as part of a broader strategy to turn the kingdom into a global logistics hub as it seeks to diversify from oil. The creation of another flag carrier would catapult Saudi Arabia into the fifth rank globally in terms of air transit traffic, official state media reported, without giving details on when and how the airline would be created. Prince Mohammad has been spearheading a push for Saudi Arabia, the biggest Arab economy and the largest country in the Gulf geographically, to boost non-oil revenues to about 45 billion riyals ($12.00 bn) by 2030. Making the kingdom a global logistics hub, which includes the development of ports, rail and road networks, would increase the transport and logistics sector's contribution to gross domestic product to 10% from 6%, state news agency SPA said. "The comprehensive strategy aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub connecting the three continents," Prince Mohammed was quoted as saying in the SPA report. "This will help other sectors like tourism, haj and umrah to achieve their national targets." The addition of another airline would increase the number of international destinations from Saudi Arabia to more than 250 and double air cargo capacity to more than 4.5 million tonnes, the SPA report said. With current flag bearer Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia), the kingdom has one of the smallest airline networks in the region relative to its size. Saudia has struggled with losses for years and like global peers, has been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. Local media reported earlier this year that the kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund, (PIF), planned to build a new airport in Riyadh as part of the new airline launch, without giving further details. The fund is the main vehicle for boosting Saudi Arabian investments at home and abroad as the young prince, known in the West as MbS, seeks to diversify the kingdom’s oil-heavy economy through his Vision 2030 strategy. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabia plans new national airline as it diversifies from oil

Israel's new foreign minister inaugurated its embassy in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday and offered an olive branch to other former adversaries, saying: "We're here to stay." 
 
Yair Lapid's two-day visit, in which he will open an Israeli consulate in Dubai on Wednesday, is the first to the Gulf state by an Israeli cabinet minister since the countries established ties last year. 
 
The trip is also an opportunity for the two-week-old Israeli government of Naftali Bennett, a nationalist, who heads an improbable cross-partisan coalition, to make diplomatic inroads despite long-stymied talks with the Palestinians. 
 
"Israel wants peace with its neighbours - with all its neighbours. We aren't going anywhere. The Middle East is our home," Lapid said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Abu Dhabi high-rise office serving as a temporary embassy. 
 
"We're here to stay. We call on all the countries of the region to recognise that and to come to talk to us," he said.

Brought together by shared worries about Iran and hopes for commercial boons, the UAE and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel last year under so-called 'Abraham Accords' crafted by the administration of then US-President Donald Trump. Sudan and Morocco have since also moved to establish ties with Israel. 
 
Lapid and his Emirati counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan discussed building on the accords to achieve peace and strengthen security in the region, state news agency WAM said. 
 
They signed an agreement for economic and commercial cooperation, which an Israeli spokesman had earlier said would be the 12th since last year's move to forge ties. 
 
US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken, welcoming Lapid's visit, said Washington "will continue to work with Israel and the UAE as we strengthen all aspects of our partnerships and work to create a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for all the peoples of the Middle East", the State Department said. 
 
The regional rapprochement was deplored by the Palestinians, who want their demands for statehood free of Israeli occupation addressed first. 
 
President Mahmoud Abbas dismissed the accords as 'an illusion' and asserted that colonial powers had "implant(ed) Israel as a foreign body in this region in order to fragment it and keep it weak," according to a report on Tuesday by the official Palestinian news service WAFA.

Lapid will on Wednesday visit the site of Expo 2020 Dubai, a world fair opening in October where Israel has built a pavilion. 
 
The UAE formally opened its embassy in Israel, temporarily located in the Tel Aviv stock exchange, this month. 
 
Israel's Abu Dhabi embassy still has only three diplomats and a head of mission, Eitan Na'eh, yet to be confirmed as full ambassador. Its Dubai consulate is similarly located in temporary premises. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's new foreign minister inaugurated its embassy in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday and offered an olive branch to other former adversaries, saying: "We're here to stay.

Israel's new foreign minister inaugurated its embassy in the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday and offered an olive branch to other former adversaries, saying: "We're here to stay." Yair Lapid's two-day visit, in which he will open an Israeli consulate in Dubai on Wednesday, is the first to the Gulf state by an Israeli cabinet minister since the countries established ties last year. The trip is also an opportunity for the two-week-old Israeli government of Naftali Bennett, a nationalist, who heads an improbable cross-partisan coalition, to make diplomatic inroads despite long-stymied talks with the Palestinians. "Israel wants peace with its neighbours - with all its neighbours. We aren't going anywhere. The Middle East is our home," Lapid said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Abu Dhabi high-rise office serving as a temporary embassy. "We're here to stay. We call on all the countries of the region to recognise that and to come to talk to us," he said. Brought together by shared worries about Iran and hopes for commercial boons, the UAE and Bahrain normalised relations with Israel last year under so-called 'Abraham Accords' crafted by the administration of then US-President Donald Trump. Sudan and Morocco have since also moved to establish ties with Israel. Lapid and his Emirati counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan discussed building on the accords to achieve peace and strengthen security in the region, state news agency WAM said. They signed an agreement for economic and commercial cooperation, which an Israeli spokesman had earlier said would be the 12th since last year's move to forge ties. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, welcoming Lapid's visit, said Washington "will continue to work with Israel and the UAE as we strengthen all aspects of our partnerships and work to create a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for all the peoples of the Middle East", the State Department said. The regional rapprochement was deplored by the Palestinians, who want their demands for statehood free of Israeli occupation addressed first. President Mahmoud Abbas dismissed the accords as 'an illusion' and asserted that colonial powers had "implant(ed) Israel as a foreign body in this region in order to fragment it and keep it weak," according to a report on Tuesday by the official Palestinian news service WAFA. Lapid will on Wednesday visit the site of Expo 2020 Dubai, a world fair opening in October where Israel has built a pavilion. The UAE formally opened its embassy in Israel, temporarily located in the Tel Aviv stock exchange, this month. Israel's Abu Dhabi embassy still has only three diplomats and a head of mission, Eitan Na'eh, yet to be confirmed as full ambassador. Its Dubai consulate is similarly located in temporary premises. (With inputs from agencies)

Inaugurating embassy in UAE, Israel tells region: 'We're here to stay'

Nearly a month after coming to office, President Joe Biden on Wednesday (local time) spoke to Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the first time since the inauguration and reiterated the United States' support for the recent normalisation of relations between Israel and countries in the Arab and Muslim world.&nbsp;

During the telephonic conversation, Biden affirmed his personal history of steadfast commitment to Israel's security and conveyed his intent to strengthen all aspects of the US-Israel partnership, including strong defence cooperation, according to an official statement issued by the White House.&nbsp;

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Netanyahu was the first leader in the Middle East to get a call from Biden, according to The Jerusalem Post. During the interaction, both leaders discussed the importance of continued close consultation on regional security issues, including Iran.&nbsp;

"Biden underscored the importance of working to advance peace throughout the region, including between Israelis and Palestinians," the statement said.&nbsp;

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Both leaders also affirmed their shared interest in continued strategic cooperation to confront the many challenges facing the region.&nbsp;

Following the interaction, Biden tweeted, "I spoke today with Israeli PM Netanyahu and affirmed the United States' steadfast commitment to our ally Israel's security. Our teams are in constant touch to strengthen US-Israel strategic cooperation on all regional security issues, including Iran." &nbsp;

Last year on December 16, US President Donald Trump had presided over the signing ceremony at the White House to establish the foundation of the peace agreements between Israel, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. &nbsp;

Nearly a month after coming to office, President Joe Biden on Wednesday (local time) spoke to Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the first time since the inauguration and reiterated the United States' support for the recent normalisation of relations between Israel and countries in the Arab and Muslim world.

Nearly a month after coming to office, President Joe Biden on Wednesday (local time) spoke to Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the first time since the inauguration and reiterated the United States' support for the recent normalisation of relations between Israel and countries in the Arab and Muslim world. During the telephonic conversation, Biden affirmed his personal history of steadfast commitment to Israel's security and conveyed his intent to strengthen all aspects of the US-Israel partnership, including strong defence cooperation, according to an official statement issued by the White House. Also Read: US charges three North Korean hackers in $1.3 billion theft spree Netanyahu was the first leader in the Middle East to get a call from Biden, according to The Jerusalem Post. During the interaction, both leaders discussed the importance of continued close consultation on regional security issues, including Iran. "Biden underscored the importance of working to advance peace throughout the region, including between Israelis and Palestinians," the statement said. Also Read: Biden's US immigration reform bill to be unveiled on Thursday Both leaders also affirmed their shared interest in continued strategic cooperation to confront the many challenges facing the region. Following the interaction, Biden tweeted, "I spoke today with Israeli PM Netanyahu and affirmed the United States' steadfast commitment to our ally Israel's security. Our teams are in constant touch to strengthen US-Israel strategic cooperation on all regional security issues, including Iran." Last year on December 16, US President Donald Trump had presided over the signing ceremony at the White House to establish the foundation of the peace agreements between Israel, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.

Biden affirms support for normalisation of ties between Israel, Arab nations

In the Arab world's first interplanetary mission, a spacecraft from the United Arab Emirates was set to swing into orbit around Mars on Tuesday, the first of three robotic explorers arriving at the red planet over the next week and a half.&nbsp;

The orbiter, which is called Amal, Arabic for Hope, traveled 300 million miles in nearly seven months to get to Mars with the goal of mapping its atmosphere throughout each season.&nbsp;

A combination of orbiter and lander from China is close behind, scheduled to reach the planet on Wednesday. It will circle Mars until the rover separates and attempts to land on the surface in May to look for signs of ancient life.&nbsp;

A rover from the US Named Perseverance is set to join the crowd next week, aiming for a landing on February 18. It will be the first leg in a decade-long US-European project to bring Mars rocks back to Earth to be examined for evidence the planet once harbored microscopic life.&nbsp;

About 60 per cent of all Mars missions have ended in failure, crashing, burning up or otherwise falling short in a testament to the complexity of interplanetary travel and the difficulty of making a descent through Mars' thin atmosphere.&nbsp;

If it pulls this off, China will become only the second country to land successfully on Mars. The US has done it eight times, the first almost 45 years ago. A NASA rover and lander are still working on the surface.&nbsp;

For the UAE, it was the country's first venture beyond Earth's orbit, making the flight a matter of intense national pride.&nbsp;

For days, landmarks across the UAE, including Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower on Earth, glowed red to mark Amal's anticipated arrival. This year is the 50th anniversary of the country's founding, casting even more attention on Amal.&nbsp;

The celestial weather station aimed for an exceptionally high Martian orbit of 13,670 miles by 27,340 miles (22,000 kilometers by 44,000 kilometers). It was set to join six spacecraft already operating around Mars: three US, two European and one Indian.&nbsp;

Amal was expected to perform an intricate, high-stakes series of turns and engine firings to maneuver into orbit and achieve what has eluded so many before.&nbsp;

In the Arab world's first interplanetary mission, a spacecraft from the United Arab Emirates was set to swing into orbit around Mars on Tuesday, the first of three robotic explorers arriving at the red planet over the next week and a half.

In the Arab world's first interplanetary mission, a spacecraft from the United Arab Emirates was set to swing into orbit around Mars on Tuesday, the first of three robotic explorers arriving at the red planet over the next week and a half. The orbiter, which is called Amal, Arabic for Hope, traveled 300 million miles in nearly seven months to get to Mars with the goal of mapping its atmosphere throughout each season. A combination of orbiter and lander from China is close behind, scheduled to reach the planet on Wednesday. It will circle Mars until the rover separates and attempts to land on the surface in May to look for signs of ancient life. A rover from the US Named Perseverance is set to join the crowd next week, aiming for a landing on February 18. It will be the first leg in a decade-long US-European project to bring Mars rocks back to Earth to be examined for evidence the planet once harbored microscopic life. About 60 per cent of all Mars missions have ended in failure, crashing, burning up or otherwise falling short in a testament to the complexity of interplanetary travel and the difficulty of making a descent through Mars' thin atmosphere. If it pulls this off, China will become only the second country to land successfully on Mars. The US has done it eight times, the first almost 45 years ago. A NASA rover and lander are still working on the surface. For the UAE, it was the country's first venture beyond Earth's orbit, making the flight a matter of intense national pride. For days, landmarks across the UAE, including Burj Khalifa, the tallest tower on Earth, glowed red to mark Amal's anticipated arrival. This year is the 50th anniversary of the country's founding, casting even more attention on Amal. The celestial weather station aimed for an exceptionally high Martian orbit of 13,670 miles by 27,340 miles (22,000 kilometers by 44,000 kilometers). It was set to join six spacecraft already operating around Mars: three US, two European and one Indian. Amal was expected to perform an intricate, high-stakes series of turns and engine firings to maneuver into orbit and achieve what has eluded so many before.

On historic flight, Arab spacecraft to enter Mars orbit

India hailed the peace deals between Israel and the Arab Nations. Speaking at the United Nation Council meeting, the Indian envoy to the UN TS Tirumurti said that these accords will lead to peace and stability in West Asia.

India praises Abraham accords at UNSC

10 years since the Arab spring, why are countries that fought for dignity & democracy far from it? Is the fault in our understanding of what an uprising can achieve? WION's Palki Sharma tells you why to strengthen democracy, you must strengthen institutions.

Gravitas Plus: The Arab Spring at 10 years

The winds of normalisation are gaining speed in West Asia. After United Arab Emirates, Bahrain has normalised its ties with Israel. Israel has effectively made two peace agreements with two different Arab countries in less than a month, a historic feat. It seems that more Arab nations will follow suit and make peace with Israel.

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The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently in Washington DC to attend a lavish White House ceremony to mark the establishment of full relations with UAE and Bahrain. The foreign ministers of the two countries are expected to join him.<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-saudi-arabia-normalise-ties-with-israel-327579/embed" style="width: 100%; max-width: 560px;" width="560"></iframe>

They will be signing a normalisation agreement which is being called “The Abraham Accord”. This will be Israel's third and fourth such peace treaty with Arab states. Israel signed a similar deal with Egypt in 1979, and one with Jordan in 1994. Which countries could be next in line?

Oman

A good bet is Oman, for it congratulated Israel and UAE on their agreement. In the past, Oman has played the role of interlocutor between Israel and the Arab world several times.

In 2018, Oman's late sultan Gaboos hosted Netanyahu for his first visit to the gulf in over two decades. In 2019, Netanyahu met Oman's foreign minister Yusuf Bin Alwai at the Warsaw conference.

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The new sultan also views Israel as an attractive partner in diversifying his country's economy. Just last month, the US State secretary met with sultan Haitham Bin Tariq in Muscat. Reports say that along with US, the sultan is deftly engineering a foreign policy that will accommodate Israel.

Muscat's position on the Palestine conflict, much like other Arab states has always been driven by economic and security interests. Oman has maintained secret diplomatic ties with Israel for years.

Morocco

Following Oman could be Morocco. Morocco too has often acted as a mediator between the east and west. It is said to maintain a “special relationship” with Israel.

Some 3,000 Jews live in Morocco, the largest such community in the Arab world. Besides this, the North African country's economic ties with Israel have been steadily growing.

In January this year, Morocco received three Israeli drones as part of a 48 million dollar arms deal. And in recent weeks, the Moroccan leadership has praised the Trump administration's peace plan.

Saudi Arabia 

Saudi Arabia could also recognise Israel, which will be a huge development.

The Sheikhdom has been taking small but symbolic steps. First, it opened its airspace for all commercial flights between UAE and Israel. A significant step that not only cuts down on the flying time, but the animosity between the two sides.

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But the biggest development - The Imam of Mecca's grand mosque being accused of justifying normalisation of ties. A recent sermon at the grand mosque has caused quite a stir in the kingdom and on social media, and is being seen as a prelude to Saudi Arabia recognising Israel.

The Saudis are the de-facto leaders of the Islamic world. They are the guardians of islam's holiest sites - Mecca and Medina. Saudi Arabia runs the risk of inflaming Muslim sentiments by recognising a Jewish state. The kingdom's decision will be met with disdain by Islamic leaders &amp; their followers around the world.

What about Netanyahu?

Benjamin Netanyahu is set to sign the peace accord at the White House, but will it be enough to save his political career?

Despite such tremendous foreign policy breakthroughs, his own citizens are unhappy with him.

As Netanyahu departed for Washington DC, he was greeted by hundreds of demonstrators outside the Ben Gurion airport. These protesters called for Netanyahu's resignation.

They want him sacked for his alleged graft offences and his failure to manage the COVID-19 crisis.

There's growing resentment within the political establishment as well. Yaakov Litzman, Israel's former health minister and the current housing minister has resigned - a decision in protest of the Israeli government's decision to impose a general lockdown during the upcoming holiday period.

The winds of normalisation are gaining speed in West Asia. After United Arab Emirates, Bahrain has normalised its ties with Israel. Israel has effectively made two peace agreements with two different Arab countries in less than a month, a historic feat.

The winds of normalisation are gaining speed in West Asia. After United Arab Emirates, Bahrain has normalised its ties with Israel. Israel has effectively made two peace agreements with two different Arab countries in less than a month, a historic feat. It seems that more Arab nations will follow suit and make peace with Israel. Also read: Netanyahu sees direct Israel-Bahrain flights after normalisation deal The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently in Washington DC to attend a lavish White House ceremony to mark the establishment of full relations with UAE and Bahrain. The foreign ministers of the two countries are expected to join him. They will be signing a normalisation agreement which is being called “The Abraham Accord”. This will be Israel's third and fourth such peace treaty with Arab states. Israel signed a similar deal with Egypt in 1979, and one with Jordan in 1994. Which countries could be next in line? Oman A good bet is Oman, for it congratulated Israel and UAE on their agreement. In the past, Oman has played the role of interlocutor between Israel and the Arab world several times. In 2018, Oman's late sultan Gaboos hosted Netanyahu for his first visit to the gulf in over two decades. In 2019, Netanyahu met Oman's foreign minister Yusuf Bin Alwai at the Warsaw conference. Also read: Bahrain partner to 'crimes' of Israel, says Iran after peace agreement The new sultan also views Israel as an attractive partner in diversifying his country's economy. Just last month, the US State secretary met with sultan Haitham Bin Tariq in Muscat. Reports say that along with US, the sultan is deftly engineering a foreign policy that will accommodate Israel. Muscat's position on the Palestine conflict, much like other Arab states has always been driven by economic and security interests. Oman has maintained secret diplomatic ties with Israel for years. Morocco Following Oman could be Morocco. Morocco too has often acted as a mediator between the east and west. It is said to maintain a “special relationship” with Israel. Some 3,000 Jews live in Morocco, the largest such community in the Arab world. Besides this, the North African country's economic ties with Israel have been steadily growing. In January this year, Morocco received three Israeli drones as part of a 48 million dollar arms deal. And in recent weeks, the Moroccan leadership has praised the Trump administration's peace plan. Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia could also recognise Israel, which will be a huge development. The Sheikhdom has been taking small but symbolic steps. First, it opened its airspace for all commercial flights between UAE and Israel. A significant step that not only cuts down on the flying time, but the animosity between the two sides. Also read: Fresh protests break out in Israel against Nethanyahu's poor handling of coronavirus But the biggest development - The Imam of Mecca's grand mosque being accused of justifying normalisation of ties. A recent sermon at the grand mosque has caused quite a stir in the kingdom and on social media, and is being seen as a prelude to Saudi Arabia recognising Israel. The Saudis are the de-facto leaders of the Islamic world. They are the guardians of islam's holiest sites - Mecca and Medina. Saudi Arabia runs the risk of inflaming Muslim sentiments by recognising a Jewish state. The kingdom's decision will be met with disdain by Islamic leaders & their followers around the world. What about Netanyahu? Benjamin Netanyahu is set to sign the peace accord at the White House, but will it be enough to save his political career? Despite such tremendous foreign policy breakthroughs, his own citizens are unhappy with him. As Netanyahu departed for Washington DC, he was greeted by hundreds of demonstrators outside the Ben Gurion airport. These protesters called for Netanyahu's resignation. They want him sacked for his alleged graft offences and his failure to manage the COVID-19 crisis. There's growing resentment within the political establishment as well. Yaakov Litzman, Israel's former health minister and the current housing minister has resigned - a decision in protest of the Israeli government's decision to impose a general lockdown during the upcoming holiday period.

Will other Arab countries follow suit to normalise ties with Israel?

From cries of “betrayal” to fears about “falling dominoes”, the deal making the United Arab Emirates the third Arab state to forge ties with Israel stirred anger and dismay around the Middle East, but a cautious welcome from the UAE’s Gulf allies.

The mixed response highlighted new fault lines in a region where fear and distrust of Iran - shared by Israel and some Arab states - has challenged a decades-old allegiance to the Palestinian issue as a major driver of Arab policy.

Palestinians, who want to establish a state on West Bank territory captured by Israel in 1967, denounced the agreement as a betrayal of the long-held Arab stance that peace should be conditional on Israeli withdrawal from occupied territory.

The agreement, which is set to make the UAE only the third Arab state after Egypt and Jordan to make peace with Israel, calls for a temporary suspension of Israel’s planned annexation of occupied West Bank territory, but not withdrawal.

The deal, which U.S. President Donald Trump helped to broker with support from senior adviser Jared Kushner, forms a new axis with the UAE aligning itself with Israel in confronting Shi’ite Muslim Iran and Sunni Islamist radicals in the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israel-uae-deal-can-trump-ensure-peace-in-west-asia-320609">Also watch|&nbsp;Gravitas: Israel-UAE deal: Can Trump ensure peace in West Asia?</a>

This is likely to heighten tensions in the Gulf, which has in the past two years seen attacks on tankers and energy assets that the United States and Saudi Arabia have blamed on Iran, a charge Tehran denies.

Iran’s foreign minister said the deal aimed to hand Trump a win ahead of U.S. elections in November, a view echoed by the leader of Lebanon’s Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement.

“It’s shameful what Abu Dhabi did ... They don’t see the Zionist regime as an enemy, but an ally and what’s happening now is to help Trump in the elections,” Iran’s Mohammad Javad Zarif told Al Mayadeen TV.

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, in a televised speech, described the UAE move as an “election favour” for both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and said more Arab states would follow suit to “satisfy” Washington.

“It is good, though painful, that the masks have fallen,” he said, describing the deal as a betrayal of Islam and Arabs.

'Fall like dominoes'

Some worshippers at Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, where Palestinians want to establish the capital of a future state, carried pictures of UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed with the word “traitor” underneath his image.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-uae-peace-deal-netanyahu-hails-new-era-for-israel-320345">Also watch|&nbsp;Israel -UAE peace deal: Netanyahu hails new era for Israel</a>

“Just like Egypt, Jordan and now Abu Dhabi, the whole Arab world will start to fall like dominoes,” said Mohammad al-Sharif, 45, a member of Israel’s Arab minority. “That Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and his dirty dogs look out for themselves and their interests and the rest of us can go to hell.”

Palestine Liberation Organization Secretary General Saeb Erekat spelled out the potential consequences for his people if a united Arab front splintered.

“The whole thing that we based our strategy on as Arabs is that the (2002) Arab peace initiative specified that once Israel withdraws, there will be peace between Arabs and Israelis.

“Netanyahu came determined, with Kushner, Trump... to change the formula, that they want Arab recognition of Israel while they continue with the occupation, and the United Arab Emirates yesterday stamped the green light for this,” Erekat said.

Turkey may shut embassy

Turkey, a powerful regional rival of the UAE, said history would not forgive the Gulf country for making a deal which undercut the 2002 Arab peace plan, which had proposed peace in return for Israeli withdrawal from all occupied territory.

“We may also take a step in the direction of suspending diplomatic ties with the Abu Dhabi leadership or pulling back our ambassador,” President Tayyip Erdogan said after Friday prayers, adding that he could close Turkey’s embassy.

But, in a region beset with other challenges including civil wars, poverty and economic crisis, some people appeared to have other concerns.

At Istanbul’s landmark Hagia Sophia, converted by Erdogan to a mosque last month in a move which he portrayed as a step towards restoring “freedom” to Al Aqsa in Jerusalem, worshippers who spoke to Reuters were unaware of the announcement.

Incentive for peace

Egypt and Jordan, which signed peace deals with Israel in 1979 and 1994 respectively and enjoy close ties with the UAE, both welcomed the agreement. Jordan said the pact could make a beneficial impact if it spurred Israel to accept a Palestinian state on land it took in the 1967 Middle East war.

“If Israel deals with it as an incentive to end occupation..., it will move the region towards a just peace,” Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said.

Oman and Bahrain praised the accord but Saudi Arabia, which has in the past led Arab policy towards Israel and hosts Islam’s two holiest sites, has remained silent, as have Kuwait and Qatar.

Jordan’s former foreign minister, Marwan al-Muasher, said it was possible other Gulf states could follow Abu Dhabi’s lead. But none of those could address the root problem.

“In the end it’s not the Gulf states who are living under occupation, it’s the Palestinians. And until you reach a solution with the Palestinians, it does not matter how many peace deals you make with Arab states,” he told Reuters.

From cries of “betrayal” to fears about “falling dominoes”, the deal making the United Arab Emirates the third Arab state to forge ties with Israel stirred anger and dismay around the Middle East, but a cautious welcome from the UAE’s Gulf allies.

From cries of “betrayal” to fears about “falling dominoes”, the deal making the United Arab Emirates the third Arab state to forge ties with Israel stirred anger and dismay around the Middle East, but a cautious welcome from the UAE’s Gulf allies. The mixed response highlighted new fault lines in a region where fear and distrust of Iran - shared by Israel and some Arab states - has challenged a decades-old allegiance to the Palestinian issue as a major driver of Arab policy. Palestinians, who want to establish a state on West Bank territory captured by Israel in 1967, denounced the agreement as a betrayal of the long-held Arab stance that peace should be conditional on Israeli withdrawal from occupied territory. The agreement, which is set to make the UAE only the third Arab state after Egypt and Jordan to make peace with Israel, calls for a temporary suspension of Israel’s planned annexation of occupied West Bank territory, but not withdrawal. The deal, which U.S. President Donald Trump helped to broker with support from senior adviser Jared Kushner, forms a new axis with the UAE aligning itself with Israel in confronting Shi’ite Muslim Iran and Sunni Islamist radicals in the region. Also watch| Gravitas: Israel-UAE deal: Can Trump ensure peace in West Asia? This is likely to heighten tensions in the Gulf, which has in the past two years seen attacks on tankers and energy assets that the United States and Saudi Arabia have blamed on Iran, a charge Tehran denies. Iran’s foreign minister said the deal aimed to hand Trump a win ahead of U.S. elections in November, a view echoed by the leader of Lebanon’s Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement. “It’s shameful what Abu Dhabi did ... They don’t see the Zionist regime as an enemy, but an ally and what’s happening now is to help Trump in the elections,” Iran’s Mohammad Javad Zarif told Al Mayadeen TV. Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, in a televised speech, described the UAE move as an “election favour” for both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and said more Arab states would follow suit to “satisfy” Washington. “It is good, though painful, that the masks have fallen,” he said, describing the deal as a betrayal of Islam and Arabs. 'Fall like dominoes' Some worshippers at Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, where Palestinians want to establish the capital of a future state, carried pictures of UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed with the word “traitor” underneath his image. Also watch| Israel -UAE peace deal: Netanyahu hails new era for Israel “Just like Egypt, Jordan and now Abu Dhabi, the whole Arab world will start to fall like dominoes,” said Mohammad al-Sharif, 45, a member of Israel’s Arab minority. “That Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and his dirty dogs look out for themselves and their interests and the rest of us can go to hell.” Palestine Liberation Organization Secretary General Saeb Erekat spelled out the potential consequences for his people if a united Arab front splintered. “The whole thing that we based our strategy on as Arabs is that the (2002) Arab peace initiative specified that once Israel withdraws, there will be peace between Arabs and Israelis. “Netanyahu came determined, with Kushner, Trump... to change the formula, that they want Arab recognition of Israel while they continue with the occupation, and the United Arab Emirates yesterday stamped the green light for this,” Erekat said. Turkey may shut embassy Turkey, a powerful regional rival of the UAE, said history would not forgive the Gulf country for making a deal which undercut the 2002 Arab peace plan, which had proposed peace in return for Israeli withdrawal from all occupied territory. “We may also take a step in the direction of suspending diplomatic ties with the Abu Dhabi leadership or pulling back our ambassador,” President Tayyip Erdogan said after Friday prayers, adding that he could close Turkey’s embassy. But, in a region beset with other challenges including civil wars, poverty and economic crisis, some people appeared to have other concerns. At Istanbul’s landmark Hagia Sophia, converted by Erdogan to a mosque last month in a move which he portrayed as a step towards restoring “freedom” to Al Aqsa in Jerusalem, worshippers who spoke to Reuters were unaware of the announcement. Incentive for peace Egypt and Jordan, which signed peace deals with Israel in 1979 and 1994 respectively and enjoy close ties with the UAE, both welcomed the agreement. Jordan said the pact could make a beneficial impact if it spurred Israel to accept a Palestinian state on land it took in the 1967 Middle East war. “If Israel deals with it as an incentive to end occupation..., it will move the region towards a just peace,” Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said. Oman and Bahrain praised the accord but Saudi Arabia, which has in the past led Arab policy towards Israel and hosts Islam’s two holiest sites, has remained silent, as have Kuwait and Qatar. Jordan’s former foreign minister, Marwan al-Muasher, said it was possible other Gulf states could follow Abu Dhabi’s lead. But none of those could address the root problem. “In the end it’s not the Gulf states who are living under occupation, it’s the Palestinians. And until you reach a solution with the Palestinians, it does not matter how many peace deals you make with Arab states,” he told Reuters.

UAE's Israel deal met with Arab dismay but quiet welcome in Gulf

Netanyahu is calling the Israel-UAE peace deal a historic event. It is a big diplomatic achievement as he gets to normalise diplomatic relations between UAE and Israel after 49-long-years.

Israel gets to rebuild its ties with the Muslim world. It gets regional acceptance. At the same time, Israel does not have to junk the plan of annexing the West Bank.

Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to be the Israeli leader who finally annexes the West Bank.&nbsp;He has promised the annexation repeatedly during the election campaigns. This deal allows him to keep that promise.

At the same time, it lets him win his voters back by extending an economic and cultural promise.

According to a recent poll, only four per cent of Israelis view the annexation as a priority, whereas, 69 per cent of people, on the other hand, want the government to give priority to the&nbsp;economy.

It is exactly what the Abaram accord gives Netanyahu -&nbsp;&nbsp;a shot at transforming Israel's growth in terms of economy, technology, tourism and&nbsp;culture.

West Bank is&nbsp;a thin strip of land between Israel and the Jordan River. This piece of land lies at the heart of the Israel-Palestine conflict.&nbsp;West Bank is home to 3 million Palestinian Arabs.

It is seen as the heart of the future Palestinian state but the West Bank is also home to Israeli Jews. Most of them moved there&nbsp;to post the Middle East war of 1967.

Today, the West Bank is a collage of settlements. Officially, West Bank is not a part of Israel. But Jerusalem wants to annex it. The Abraham accord puts the annexation plan on hold temporary.

So the&nbsp;peace deal does not have much for the Palestinians. They have accused the United Arab Emirates of abandoning them.&nbsp;A spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said the deal amounts to treason.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh, said: "The Palestinian leadership announces that it rejects and denounces the surprise trilateral UAE, Israeli and US announcement about full normalization of relations."

Iran is a big factor in this deal.&nbsp;It is the shared threat from Tehran that has brought UAE and Israel together, officially.

Iran is not only a threat but also a terror in the region as are its Shia Jihadi groups.&nbsp;Iran's neighbours need to share security and intelligence more than ever. Israel was already growing friendlier with the neighbourhood making the ties official is hurting the stakeholders.

It a diplomatic win for Trump ahead of his re-election bid -&nbsp;a political validation for Netanyahu even as UAE gets the credit for halting the annexation of the West Bank.

For Turkey, the&nbsp;deal means a paradise lost. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been trying to project himself as the champion of the Palestinian cause. He wants to be the leader of the Muslim world and the&nbsp;deal snatches that dream from him.

Meanwhile, it is highly unlikely that the&nbsp;deal was inked without the nod of the Saudis.&nbsp;Oman and Bahrain have already cultivated friendly ties with Israel, if the United States is to be believed, it is only a matter of time before they too start signing accords with Israel.

Netanyahu is calling the Israel-UAE peace deal a historic event. It is a big diplomatic achievement as he gets to normalise diplomatic relations between UAE and Israel after 49-long-years.

Netanyahu is calling the Israel-UAE peace deal a historic event. It is a big diplomatic achievement as he gets to normalise diplomatic relations between UAE and Israel after 49-long-years. Israel gets to rebuild its ties with the Muslim world. It gets regional acceptance. At the same time, Israel does not have to junk the plan of annexing the West Bank. Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to be the Israeli leader who finally annexes the West Bank. He has promised the annexation repeatedly during the election campaigns. This deal allows him to keep that promise. At the same time, it lets him win his voters back by extending an economic and cultural promise. According to a recent poll, only four per cent of Israelis view the annexation as a priority, whereas, 69 per cent of people, on the other hand, want the government to give priority to the economy. It is exactly what the Abaram accord gives Netanyahu - a shot at transforming Israel's growth in terms of economy, technology, tourism and culture. West Bank is a thin strip of land between Israel and the Jordan River. This piece of land lies at the heart of the Israel-Palestine conflict. West Bank is home to 3 million Palestinian Arabs. It is seen as the heart of the future Palestinian state but the West Bank is also home to Israeli Jews. Most of them moved there to post the Middle East war of 1967. Today, the West Bank is a collage of settlements. Officially, West Bank is not a part of Israel. But Jerusalem wants to annex it. The Abraham accord puts the annexation plan on hold temporary. So the peace deal does not have much for the Palestinians. They have accused the United Arab Emirates of abandoning them. A spokesperson for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said the deal amounts to treason. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh, said: "The Palestinian leadership announces that it rejects and denounces the surprise trilateral UAE, Israeli and US announcement about full normalization of relations." Iran is a big factor in this deal. It is the shared threat from Tehran that has brought UAE and Israel together, officially. Iran is not only a threat but also a terror in the region as are its Shia Jihadi groups. Iran's neighbours need to share security and intelligence more than ever. Israel was already growing friendlier with the neighbourhood making the ties official is hurting the stakeholders. It a diplomatic win for Trump ahead of his re-election bid - a political validation for Netanyahu even as UAE gets the credit for halting the annexation of the West Bank. For Turkey, the deal means a paradise lost. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been trying to project himself as the champion of the Palestinian cause. He wants to be the leader of the Muslim world and the deal snatches that dream from him. Meanwhile, it is highly unlikely that the deal was inked without the nod of the Saudis. Oman and Bahrain have already cultivated friendly ties with Israel, if the United States is to be believed, it is only a matter of time before they too start signing accords with Israel.

Israel-UAE deal: What's in it for UAE, Arab countries and Netanyahu?

By Alainna Liloia

Arab women, long relegated to the private sphere by law and social custom, are gaining new access to public life.

All countries of the Arab Gulf now have workforce “nationalisation policies” that aim to reduce dependency on migrant labour by getting more women into the workforce. Saudi Arabia set a goal of 30 per cent female labour participation by 2030. In Kuwait, female citizens outnumber male citizens in the workforce. And across the Gulf, women outnumber men in higher education enrollment.

Women are making political inroads in the region, too. In Qatar, four women have been appointed to ministerial positions since 2003. Eleven women have held cabinet positions in Kuwait since 2005, including the health minister, transportation minister and finance minister.

Even Saudi Arabia, which notoriously restricts women’s rights, reformed the guardianship system that grants authority over women to their male relatives. Since August 2019, women may obtain passports, travel abroad and register marriages and births on their own.

These changes have real-world benefits for Arab women, giving them greater economic independence and a voice in domestic and international affairs.

But Arab Muslim women in the Middle East still face substantial social and legal inequalities. Even as governments in the region tout female advancement abroad, my research on women in the Arab Gulf finds, at home, they still enforce traditional gender roles.

Women as symbols of Islam

The discovery of oil in the Arab Gulf in the 1930s turned these Islamic monarchies into global players. One result of this globalisation was that Western leaders put pressure on the region to “modernise” their laws and customs.

Championing women’s advancement is one way Gulf rulers can present a positive international image. This helps maintain good political, military and trade relationships with Europe and the United States and allays criticisms of human rights violations.

In recent years, Arab Gulf women have also fought hard for their rights. Saudi women successfully campaigned for the right to drive, which was granted in 2018. In Kuwait, activists are now pushing for better protection against domestic violence.

But Gulf rulers still need the support of conservative citizens and influential religious leaders, too. And these sectors of the population have repeatedly raised fears of Westernisation threatening local language, dress styles, food and cultural traditions.

One way Gulf rulers manage this tension, I’ve found, is by promoting Quranic interpretations that relegate women to traditional roles like bearing and raising children and caring for their families. Celebrating women’s domesticity is an easy way to signal their government’s commitment to what they consider Islamic values.

In Qatar, for example, the National Vision 2030 – an economic and social development blueprint – states that “Qatar has maintained its cultural and traditional values as an Arab and Islamic nation that considers the family to be the main pillar of society.”

And the Qataris propping up this pillar are women.

“Through their nurturing of language, codes of ethics, behavioural patterns, value systems and religious beliefs, women play an indispensable role in upholding traditional familial and cultural values,” reads a government document building on the proposals laid out in the National Vision 2030.

Religion and gender 
 
There are, of course, more gender-equal interpretations of the Quran. Islam itself does not require repressing women.

But throughout history male leaders in the Gulf have associated patriarchal gender roles with religious purity. And clerics, who have significant social and political influence in the region, enforce conservative readings of Islamic law that subordinate women.

For example, women in all of the Gulf states must receive the approval of a male guardian to marry. In Qatar, single women under 25 require permission to travel abroad, and Qatari men can argue in court to stop their wives from traveling. In Saudi Arabia, men can file a “disobedience” complaint against female relatives for leaving the house without permission.

In Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain, a man can stop his wife from working if he feels her employment interferes with her domestic responsibilities or religious conduct.

As a result, women in Gulf countries find themselves caught between two contradictory agendas for the 21st century.

What women want

Many Qatari women I’ve interviewed say they struggle to balance the conflicting expectations between domestic responsibilities and emerging professional opportunities.

Sheikha, an unmarried Qatari in her late 20s who works as an academic adviser, told me she often wonders: “I have a job and future plans. Why should I marry?”

“I don’t want to say that marriage erases the dreams,” she said, “but sometimes with the family commitment you can’t do it.”

Qatari women like Sheikha tend to face significant social pressure to settle down and have children by a certain age and to make sure their education and career goals do not get in the way of domestic responsibilities.

Not all the pressure is external. Many women I met hold conservative views on marriage and the family, too.

“I started work when my last daughter got married,” Amina Al-Ansari, an associate professor at Qatar University, told me. “Before that, I took care of the house and kids.”

Al-Ansari, like all 15 Qatari women I interviewed, believes caring for the family is a woman’s religious duty.

Still can’t have it all

Conservative Qataris also view women working or studying in a gender-mixed environment as a violation of Islamic values and a sign of Westernisation.

That’s why Amal Al-Shammari, a 32-year-old Qatari who now runs a cultural association for expatriates and tourists called Embrace Doha, attended Qatar University – the country’s only gender-segregated university.

“My parents wanted me to go there to keep a good reputation. Guys assume you have lots of relationships if you go to gender-mixed universities,” she told me. “My parents wanted me to stay with the conservative way.”

As political and religious leaders in the Gulf push their national agendas, women must find their own ways to balance newfound freedoms with existing social and religious pressures.

“There is always development, improvement, but always tradition, religion, and culture,” the professor, Al-Ansari, told me, summing up these tensions.

“We are living under the umbrella of religion.”

(Alainna Liloia is PhD Student, University of Arizona)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/women-in-arab-countries-find-themselves-torn-between-opportunity-and-tradition-130460">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

By Alainna Liloia Arab women, long relegated to the private sphere by law and social custom, are gaining new access to public life. All countries of the Arab Gulf now have workforce “nationalisation policies” that aim to reduce dependency on migrant labour by getting more women into the workforce.

By Alainna Liloia Arab women, long relegated to the private sphere by law and social custom, are gaining new access to public life. All countries of the Arab Gulf now have workforce “nationalisation policies” that aim to reduce dependency on migrant labour by getting more women into the workforce. Saudi Arabia set a goal of 30 per cent female labour participation by 2030. In Kuwait, female citizens outnumber male citizens in the workforce. And across the Gulf, women outnumber men in higher education enrollment. Women are making political inroads in the region, too. In Qatar, four women have been appointed to ministerial positions since 2003. Eleven women have held cabinet positions in Kuwait since 2005, including the health minister, transportation minister and finance minister. Even Saudi Arabia, which notoriously restricts women’s rights, reformed the guardianship system that grants authority over women to their male relatives. Since August 2019, women may obtain passports, travel abroad and register marriages and births on their own. These changes have real-world benefits for Arab women, giving them greater economic independence and a voice in domestic and international affairs. But Arab Muslim women in the Middle East still face substantial social and legal inequalities. Even as governments in the region tout female advancement abroad, my research on women in the Arab Gulf finds, at home, they still enforce traditional gender roles. Women as symbols of Islam The discovery of oil in the Arab Gulf in the 1930s turned these Islamic monarchies into global players. One result of this globalisation was that Western leaders put pressure on the region to “modernise” their laws and customs. Championing women’s advancement is one way Gulf rulers can present a positive international image. This helps maintain good political, military and trade relationships with Europe and the United States and allays criticisms of human rights violations. In recent years, Arab Gulf women have also fought hard for their rights. Saudi women successfully campaigned for the right to drive, which was granted in 2018. In Kuwait, activists are now pushing for better protection against domestic violence. But Gulf rulers still need the support of conservative citizens and influential religious leaders, too. And these sectors of the population have repeatedly raised fears of Westernisation threatening local language, dress styles, food and cultural traditions. One way Gulf rulers manage this tension, I’ve found, is by promoting Quranic interpretations that relegate women to traditional roles like bearing and raising children and caring for their families. Celebrating women’s domesticity is an easy way to signal their government’s commitment to what they consider Islamic values. In Qatar, for example, the National Vision 2030 – an economic and social development blueprint – states that “Qatar has maintained its cultural and traditional values as an Arab and Islamic nation that considers the family to be the main pillar of society.” And the Qataris propping up this pillar are women. “Through their nurturing of language, codes of ethics, behavioural patterns, value systems and religious beliefs, women play an indispensable role in upholding traditional familial and cultural values,” reads a government document building on the proposals laid out in the National Vision 2030. Religion and gender There are, of course, more gender-equal interpretations of the Quran. Islam itself does not require repressing women. But throughout history male leaders in the Gulf have associated patriarchal gender roles with religious purity. And clerics, who have significant social and political influence in the region, enforce conservative readings of Islamic law that subordinate women. For example, women in all of the Gulf states must receive the approval of a male guardian to marry. In Qatar, single women under 25 require permission to travel abroad, and Qatari men can argue in court to stop their wives from traveling. In Saudi Arabia, men can file a “disobedience” complaint against female relatives for leaving the house without permission. In Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain, a man can stop his wife from working if he feels her employment interferes with her domestic responsibilities or religious conduct. As a result, women in Gulf countries find themselves caught between two contradictory agendas for the 21st century. What women want Many Qatari women I’ve interviewed say they struggle to balance the conflicting expectations between domestic responsibilities and emerging professional opportunities. Sheikha, an unmarried Qatari in her late 20s who works as an academic adviser, told me she often wonders: “I have a job and future plans. Why should I marry?” “I don’t want to say that marriage erases the dreams,” she said, “but sometimes with the family commitment you can’t do it.” Qatari women like Sheikha tend to face significant social pressure to settle down and have children by a certain age and to make sure their education and career goals do not get in the way of domestic responsibilities. Not all the pressure is external. Many women I met hold conservative views on marriage and the family, too. “I started work when my last daughter got married,” Amina Al-Ansari, an associate professor at Qatar University, told me. “Before that, I took care of the house and kids.” Al-Ansari, like all 15 Qatari women I interviewed, believes caring for the family is a woman’s religious duty. Still can’t have it all Conservative Qataris also view women working or studying in a gender-mixed environment as a violation of Islamic values and a sign of Westernisation. That’s why Amal Al-Shammari, a 32-year-old Qatari who now runs a cultural association for expatriates and tourists called Embrace Doha, attended Qatar University – the country’s only gender-segregated university. “My parents wanted me to go there to keep a good reputation. Guys assume you have lots of relationships if you go to gender-mixed universities,” she told me. “My parents wanted me to stay with the conservative way.” As political and religious leaders in the Gulf push their national agendas, women must find their own ways to balance newfound freedoms with existing social and religious pressures. “There is always development, improvement, but always tradition, religion, and culture,” the professor, Al-Ansari, told me, summing up these tensions. “We are living under the umbrella of religion.” (Alainna Liloia is PhD Student, University of Arizona) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Women in Arab countries find themselves torn between opportunity and tradition

A decade of anti-government protests in the Arab world have thrown popular trust in the military into the garbage bin and undermined the military’s position as one of the most trusted institutions.

Long gone are the days when protesters on Cairo’s Tahrir Square chanted 'The military and the people are one.'

In 2011 it was the barriers of fear that protesters broke. Created by autocratic rulers, fear was what long kept disgruntled from taking their grievances to the street.

In 2019 and 2020 those barriers have been further reduced with protesters refusing to back down despite the use of brutal force by law enforcement and security forces in Lebanon and Iraq and occasional violence elsewhere in the Arab world.

Changed popular perceptions of the military are the result. Increasingly, the military is seen at best as positioning itself to salvage what can be salvaged of an ancien regime and at worst the enforcer of a hated regime.

“Iraqis broke the shackles of fear and reached the point of no return. The movement will not stop, and the Iraqi people will never be silent,” said Ali Hashim, a protester in Baghdad, speaking only a week after one night of mass killings in December.

In increasingly violent clashes in Beirut earlier this month, protesters unsuccessfully sought to persuade the security forces they were attacking that their demands for a complete break with Lebanon’s political elite was also in the interest of men in uniform.

“Among the most important lessons cited by Sudanese and Algerian protesters so far are…(that) transition plans designed by the military—particularly proposals for quick elections—can be a trap,” said Middle East scholar Michele Dunne.

Algeria’s newly elected president Abdelmadjid Tebboune is struggling to garner legitimacy with mass protests continuing nine months after the toppling of Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Voters voted with their feet in last month’s presidential poll with 60 per cent abstaining.

Algeria was railroaded into the election by its powerful military in a bid to outflank protesters by holding the poll before they had an opportunity to prepare for it.

A crucial nail was driven into the coffin of the notion of a unity of purpose between protesters and armed forces with the 2013 military coup in Egypt that produced one of the Arab world’s most repressive regimes under general-turned-president Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi.

Protesters realise almost a decade after the 2011 protests in which demonstrators declared victory once leaders like Egypt’s Hosni Mubarak and Tunisia’s Zine El Abidine Ben Ali had resigned, that their only chance of success is to retain their street power until elites, including the military, agree as appears to be the case in Sudan to a truly transformational process.

In Sudan, unlike in Egypt in 2011, this meant protesters and/or civil society groups ensuring that they had a seat at the table before they surrendered the street.

In Lebanon, protests escalated as a result of the elite’s attempt to address the crisis with the appointment as prime minister of Hassan Diab, widely seen as beholden to Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militia and political group.

Mounting violence on the streets of Lebanon and Iraq in which hundreds of protesters have been killed or wounded will do little to rebuild confidence in the military and allied security forces.

If Lebanon and Iraq are anything to go by, clashes are likely to escalate and leave deep-seated scars.

“Our backs are against the wall. We have nothing more to lose. We are fighting a regime with a history of 40 years of corruption and their armed defenders,” said a masked protester on the streets of Beirut.

Taking journalist and scholar Rami Khouri’s analysis of what he terms ‘revolutions’ that are pitted against the decades-old ‘resistance’ of hard-line Arab states, Iran and its non-state Arab allies who opposed the US, Israel and conservative Gulf states Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as a starting point, militaries become outposts of a political system that has produced brutal autocracies and/or economic and environmental mismanagement.

“Arab and Iranian ruling elites and their own citizens now openly fight and resist each other, seeking to define their countries' identities and policies. This is probably the most consequential ideological battle in the Middle East since its state system was established a century ago,” Khouri said.

It’s an epic battle that has turned the once-revered military into yet another institution that finds itself on the wrong side of history.

While Arab protesters have made that clear on the streets of Khartoum, Algiers, Beirut and Baghdad, Iranian students demanded the departure and demise of the Revolutionary Guards in anti-government demonstrations prior to and after the recent killing of Iranian general Qassim Soleimani.

"The only way out of our current predicament is the simultaneous rejection of both domestic despotism and imperial arrogance. We need a politics that doesn't merely claim security, freedom, and equality for a select group or class, but that understands these rights as inalienable and for all people," said a statement by Iranian students demanding an end to all foreign interference in the affairs of the region, be it by the United States, Iran or the conservative Gulf states. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

A decade of anti-government protests in the Arab world have thrown popular trust in the military into the garbage bin and undermined the military’s position as one of the most trusted institutions.

A decade of anti-government protests in the Arab world have thrown popular trust in the military into the garbage bin and undermined the military’s position as one of the most trusted institutions. Long gone are the days when protesters on Cairo’s Tahrir Square chanted 'The military and the people are one.' In 2011 it was the barriers of fear that protesters broke. Created by autocratic rulers, fear was what long kept disgruntled from taking their grievances to the street. In 2019 and 2020 those barriers have been further reduced with protesters refusing to back down despite the use of brutal force by law enforcement and security forces in Lebanon and Iraq and occasional violence elsewhere in the Arab world. Changed popular perceptions of the military are the result. Increasingly, the military is seen at best as positioning itself to salvage what can be salvaged of an ancien regime and at worst the enforcer of a hated regime. “Iraqis broke the shackles of fear and reached the point of no return. The movement will not stop, and the Iraqi people will never be silent,” said Ali Hashim, a protester in Baghdad, speaking only a week after one night of mass killings in December. In increasingly violent clashes in Beirut earlier this month, protesters unsuccessfully sought to persuade the security forces they were attacking that their demands for a complete break with Lebanon’s political elite was also in the interest of men in uniform. “Among the most important lessons cited by Sudanese and Algerian protesters so far are…(that) transition plans designed by the military—particularly proposals for quick elections—can be a trap,” said Middle East scholar Michele Dunne. Algeria’s newly elected president Abdelmadjid Tebboune is struggling to garner legitimacy with mass protests continuing nine months after the toppling of Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Voters voted with their feet in last month’s presidential poll with 60 per cent abstaining. Algeria was railroaded into the election by its powerful military in a bid to outflank protesters by holding the poll before they had an opportunity to prepare for it. A crucial nail was driven into the coffin of the notion of a unity of purpose between protesters and armed forces with the 2013 military coup in Egypt that produced one of the Arab world’s most repressive regimes under general-turned-president Abdul Fattah Al-Sisi. Protesters realise almost a decade after the 2011 protests in which demonstrators declared victory once leaders like Egypt’s Hosni Mubarak and Tunisia’s Zine El Abidine Ben Ali had resigned, that their only chance of success is to retain their street power until elites, including the military, agree as appears to be the case in Sudan to a truly transformational process. In Sudan, unlike in Egypt in 2011, this meant protesters and/or civil society groups ensuring that they had a seat at the table before they surrendered the street. In Lebanon, protests escalated as a result of the elite’s attempt to address the crisis with the appointment as prime minister of Hassan Diab, widely seen as beholden to Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed militia and political group. Mounting violence on the streets of Lebanon and Iraq in which hundreds of protesters have been killed or wounded will do little to rebuild confidence in the military and allied security forces. If Lebanon and Iraq are anything to go by, clashes are likely to escalate and leave deep-seated scars. “Our backs are against the wall. We have nothing more to lose. We are fighting a regime with a history of 40 years of corruption and their armed defenders,” said a masked protester on the streets of Beirut. Taking journalist and scholar Rami Khouri’s analysis of what he terms ‘revolutions’ that are pitted against the decades-old ‘resistance’ of hard-line Arab states, Iran and its non-state Arab allies who opposed the US, Israel and conservative Gulf states Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as a starting point, militaries become outposts of a political system that has produced brutal autocracies and/or economic and environmental mismanagement. “Arab and Iranian ruling elites and their own citizens now openly fight and resist each other, seeking to define their countries' identities and policies. This is probably the most consequential ideological battle in the Middle East since its state system was established a century ago,” Khouri said. It’s an epic battle that has turned the once-revered military into yet another institution that finds itself on the wrong side of history. While Arab protesters have made that clear on the streets of Khartoum, Algiers, Beirut and Baghdad, Iranian students demanded the departure and demise of the Revolutionary Guards in anti-government demonstrations prior to and after the recent killing of Iranian general Qassim Soleimani. "The only way out of our current predicament is the simultaneous rejection of both domestic despotism and imperial arrogance. We need a politics that doesn't merely claim security, freedom, and equality for a select group or class, but that understands these rights as inalienable and for all people," said a statement by Iranian students demanding an end to all foreign interference in the affairs of the region, be it by the United States, Iran or the conservative Gulf states. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Protesters push Arab militaries off their pedestal

Israel's embattled Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-discusses-iran-with-israeli-pm-netanyahu-265644">Benjamin&nbsp;Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;will&nbsp;meet&nbsp;this week with US Secretary of State Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;in&nbsp;Portugal&nbsp;as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday.

Pompeo&nbsp;will head to Lisbon on Wednesday and hold talks with&nbsp;Netanyahu, a day before flying to Morocco which has a growing, if quiet, relationship with Israel.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus late Tuesday confirmed the meeting in a statement without further details.

A political source in Jerusalem earlier told AFP that&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;would fly to Lisbon to see&nbsp;Pompeo, while Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa's office also said that he would&nbsp;meet&nbsp;separately with the two men on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-deadlock-in-israel-benjamin-netanyahu-running-out-of-options-264457">Netanyahu</a>, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment on graft charges, is a close ally of President Donald Trump, who has taken a number of landmark steps to side with Israel.

The State Department earlier said that&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;would&nbsp;meet&nbsp;in Rabat with King Mohammed VI, who has cooperated closely with the United States.&nbsp;

"Morocco plays a great role across the region as an important partner in promoting tolerance (and) has these quiet ties and relationship with Israel as well," a State Department official said last week.

Egypt and Jordan are the only Arab nations to have signed peace treaties with Israel but Morocco, along with some Gulf states such as Bahrain, has been relaxing the Arab world's decades-old boycott of the Jewish state.

Morocco has unofficially welcomed Israeli investors and tourists. Some 3,000 Jews live in Morocco, a fraction of the number from before the 1948 creation of Israel but still the largest community in the Arab world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-can-stay-on-as-prime-minister-despite-indictment-israels-attorney-general-264513">Netanyahu&nbsp;and&nbsp;Pompeo</a>&nbsp;are also likely to discuss their shared hard line on Iran, which has tried the patience even of European supporters of a 2015 nuclear accord through steps taken to protest US economic sanctions.

Netanyahu&nbsp;is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he has been in acting capacity for much of 2019 after two inconclusive elections.

In a new pro-Israel shift,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;said last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal, a position taken by nearly all major nations as well as the United Nations.

The US position offers a boost to&nbsp;Netanyahu&nbsp;as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state.

Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees.

Israel's embattled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet this week with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday.

Israel's embattled Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet this week with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Portugal as the Jewish state looks to normalise ties in the Arab world, officials said Tuesday. Pompeo will head to Lisbon on Wednesday and hold talks with Netanyahu, a day before flying to Morocco which has a growing, if quiet, relationship with Israel. State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus late Tuesday confirmed the meeting in a statement without further details. A political source in Jerusalem earlier told AFP that Netanyahu would fly to Lisbon to see Pompeo, while Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa's office also said that he would meet separately with the two men on Thursday. Netanyahu, who is fighting for his political life after an indictment on graft charges, is a close ally of President Donald Trump, who has taken a number of landmark steps to side with Israel. The State Department earlier said that Pompeo would meet in Rabat with King Mohammed VI, who has cooperated closely with the United States. "Morocco plays a great role across the region as an important partner in promoting tolerance (and) has these quiet ties and relationship with Israel as well," a State Department official said last week. Egypt and Jordan are the only Arab nations to have signed peace treaties with Israel but Morocco, along with some Gulf states such as Bahrain, has been relaxing the Arab world's decades-old boycott of the Jewish state. Morocco has unofficially welcomed Israeli investors and tourists. Some 3,000 Jews live in Morocco, a fraction of the number from before the 1948 creation of Israel but still the largest community in the Arab world. Netanyahu and Pompeo are also likely to discuss their shared hard line on Iran, which has tried the patience even of European supporters of a 2015 nuclear accord through steps taken to protest US economic sanctions. Netanyahu is Israel's longest-serving prime minister but he has been in acting capacity for much of 2019 after two inconclusive elections. In a new pro-Israel shift, Pompeo said last month that the United States no longer considered Jewish settlements in the West Bank to be illegal, a position taken by nearly all major nations as well as the United Nations. The US position offers a boost to Netanyahu as he threatens to annex much of the West Bank, a step that would severely impede the long-held Palestinian hope for a separate state. Among previous steps, Trump earlier recognised bitterly contested Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cut off US funding for the UN body that supports Palestinian refugees.

Netanyahu to meet Pompeo in Portugal amid attempts to improve ties with Arab world

The Arab Spring phenomenon&nbsp;sparked on December 18, 2010, with a Tunisian fruit vendor Mohamed Bouazizi's self-immolation to protest against official corruption and indifference. The incident triggered unprecedentedly large anti-government protests in Tunisia which toppled long-established dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and set the Arab Spring rolling across a number of Arab countries, such as Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain and Syria.&nbsp;

The mass protestors called for a more representative state for greater equity and better governance. With the solitary exception of Tunisia itself(1), the outcome of the Arab Spring was disappointing in most cases. Successful toppling President Mohammed Hosni Mubarak in Egypt led to a new constitution and a general election which ushered in a Muslim Brotherhood government. However, the new inexperienced government’s radical and populist policies, as well as its incompetence, led to its overthrow and Egypt went back to a military rule.&nbsp;

Arab Spring triggered civil wars in Yemen, Libya and Syria(2), making these countries poster children of its worst-case scenarios and veritable cautionary examples. The Arab Spring in Bahrain waded into an extant Shia – Sunni divide on the island, precipitating military intervention by fellow GCC states to sustain the status quo. &nbsp;

Nine years on, the inconsequentiality and failure of the Arab Spring to achieve are widely acknowledged and the “old normal” of non-representative, despotic and corrupt regimes has been re-enforced. But then, 2019 produced a surprise: A fresh wave of youth-led Arab Spring in each of Algeria, Sudan, Lebanon and Iraq. After a relatively more persistent but less violent confrontation, these public outrages have so far succeeded in toppling the rulers in first three countries – even as their transition to sustainable democracy is still a work in progress. 
 
Iraq, the fourth, continues to be an outlier with escalating violence amidst angry, but mostly non-violent, youth and trigger happy security forces and militias claiming over 320 lives in the past month. However, given the contrast between huge oil revenues and widespread abject poverty(3), as well as, the proliferation of weapons and explosives, this figure should be considered as moderate. Although Iraqi President publicly declared that Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mehdi would resign “as soon as a successor can be found”, the political coalition backing him agreed to give him more time to “meet the popular demands.” &nbsp;

A comparative study of the “Arab Spring 2.0” – as it is being billed – with its predecessor is quite revealing. The popular wish-list of the protestors remains largely unchanged: Replacement of the extant leadership and total overhaul of the political system with more transparent and representative governance, greater trickle-down of wealth and jobs and less sectarianism and repression. Although the protestors are quite motivated and well-mobilised, their lack of hierarchy and chain of command complicate the endgame. On the other hand, the ruling elites in these countries have not lost their determination to hold on to power. This time, however, they pretend to be more open and participative and toned down the Hogra(4) and their visibility. They have also revved up the use and surveillance of social media. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
How is the Arab Spring 2.0 different? Firstly, both sides realise that it is a battle of attrition for the hearts and minds and it would be unrealistic to expect a quick and decisive breakthrough. Secondly, both sides have realised that the use of violent means is counterproductive. Both sides, therefore, feign a sense of injured innocence. Thirdly, the protestors have shunned all the traditional symbols of religious, sectarian, ideological nature and have not allowed infiltration by any anti-government elements. They have no political preferences or foreign paradigms to espouse.&nbsp;

Their demand for complete systemic overhaul may appear simplistic and utopian, but it avoids inner contradictions and friction, which can be exploited by the authorities. They have also managed to avoid any foreign affiliation, which is a kiss of death in a fairly xenophobic and Byzantine polity. &nbsp;Fourthly, as a tactic, the protestors have avoided frontal, set-piece confrontations with the authorities; Instead, they have learned to be mobile and obstruct the elite at its various eco-political choke points and symbols, such as highways, banks, ports and airports. The fifth big difference this time is the erosion of state’s capacity to make concessions: The previous Arab Spring took place in an era of high oil prices, giving the authorities more resources to make token concessions to ease popular penury. This time, the discredited State apparatus has not only lost its aura of invincibility but also the financial capacity to buy its way out of this quandary. &nbsp;

All bets are off as this uncharted confrontation between an irresistible force and an immovable object plays out. Eventually, a Sudan-type solution appears the most probable outcome. It would be recalled that after a chaotic and protracted confrontation with protestors, the military clique removed long-ruling President Oman Hassan Al-Bashir in April this year. After much shuffling of political cards, an impromptu association of Sudanese professionals and the new military dispensation negotiated an agreement to share power in a transitional period. IGAD, a regional body, led by Ethiopian Prime Minister facilitated this arrangement. It is quite ironical that after nearly a lost decade which has witnessed unprecedented strife, death and destruction, the antagonists are rewriting their respective rule-books to provide for a degree of non-violence and mutual accommodation. &nbsp;

This turn of Arab Spring 2.0 has two salient points for India too. Firstly, it is quite symbolic that as we mark the centenary of Jalianwala Bagh Massacre this year, Bapu’s message of non-violence finds relevance in the Arab world, a longstanding redoubt of “might is right” aphorism. Secondly, as experience in Sudan and elsewhere has demonstrated, the Arab Spring is essentially about the deficit of political institutions, which are either non-existent or weak or lacking in credibility. The various attempts to cover this flaw by fostering the personality cults are being rejected(5). &nbsp;

During the first Arab Spring, India was disinterested outsider, while our traditional penchant for non-interference in other’s domestic affairs is understandable, we are also a thriving democracy. Over the past seven decades, we have evolved a number of credible and effective political institutions suited for a multi-ethnic, tolerant society such as those affected by Arab Spring 2.0. This proven set of institutions in a typical 'Third World' setting is far more relevant to the needed politico-economic solutions than any other available model(6). Besides, India has better acceptability in the Arab world than most outsiders. All these attributes provide us with the capacity to hold the hands of these societies to help them make the right political choices. We need to step out of shadows this time and play a constructive role in ensuring that the Arab Spring 2.0 has a more positive and harmonious outcome. This could be the best tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the apostle of non-violent Satyagraha, as we mark his 150th birth anniversary. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<h6>&nbsp;1. Where a largely peaceful transition to democratic polity took place as was affirmed by the second general election last month 
&nbsp;2. &nbsp;Which are still raging with considerable foreign involvement. 
&nbsp;3. &nbsp;Although Iraq, OPEC’s second largest oil producer, is expected to earn $ 79 billion in oil revenue this year, 22% of its population lives below poverty line and a third of Iraqi youth are unemployed. 
4. &nbsp;“official arrogance” in Algerian Arabic dilect 
&nbsp;5. For instance, when the Lebanese demonstrators demand “all of them out”, they essentially want a technocrats-led government new institutions to replace all the current set of politicians who have played sectarian musical chairs for past three decades at public expense. 
&nbsp;6. For example, our expertise and experience in holding elections can be helpful in creating a credible and elegant exit from this confrontation.</h6>

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Arab Spring phenomenon sparked on December 18, 2010, with a Tunisian fruit vendor Mohamed Bouazizi's self-immolation to protest against official corruption and indifference.

The Arab Spring phenomenon sparked on December 18, 2010, with a Tunisian fruit vendor Mohamed Bouazizi's self-immolation to protest against official corruption and indifference. The incident triggered unprecedentedly large anti-government protests in Tunisia which toppled long-established dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and set the Arab Spring rolling across a number of Arab countries, such as Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain and Syria. The mass protestors called for a more representative state for greater equity and better governance. With the solitary exception of Tunisia itself(1), the outcome of the Arab Spring was disappointing in most cases. Successful toppling President Mohammed Hosni Mubarak in Egypt led to a new constitution and a general election which ushered in a Muslim Brotherhood government. However, the new inexperienced government’s radical and populist policies, as well as its incompetence, led to its overthrow and Egypt went back to a military rule. Arab Spring triggered civil wars in Yemen, Libya and Syria(2), making these countries poster children of its worst-case scenarios and veritable cautionary examples. The Arab Spring in Bahrain waded into an extant Shia – Sunni divide on the island, precipitating military intervention by fellow GCC states to sustain the status quo. Nine years on, the inconsequentiality and failure of the Arab Spring to achieve are widely acknowledged and the “old normal” of non-representative, despotic and corrupt regimes has been re-enforced. But then, 2019 produced a surprise: A fresh wave of youth-led Arab Spring in each of Algeria, Sudan, Lebanon and Iraq. After a relatively more persistent but less violent confrontation, these public outrages have so far succeeded in toppling the rulers in first three countries – even as their transition to sustainable democracy is still a work in progress. Iraq, the fourth, continues to be an outlier with escalating violence amidst angry, but mostly non-violent, youth and trigger happy security forces and militias claiming over 320 lives in the past month. However, given the contrast between huge oil revenues and widespread abject poverty(3), as well as, the proliferation of weapons and explosives, this figure should be considered as moderate. Although Iraqi President publicly declared that Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mehdi would resign “as soon as a successor can be found”, the political coalition backing him agreed to give him more time to “meet the popular demands.” A comparative study of the “Arab Spring 2.0” – as it is being billed – with its predecessor is quite revealing. The popular wish-list of the protestors remains largely unchanged: Replacement of the extant leadership and total overhaul of the political system with more transparent and representative governance, greater trickle-down of wealth and jobs and less sectarianism and repression. Although the protestors are quite motivated and well-mobilised, their lack of hierarchy and chain of command complicate the endgame. On the other hand, the ruling elites in these countries have not lost their determination to hold on to power. This time, however, they pretend to be more open and participative and toned down the Hogra(4) and their visibility. They have also revved up the use and surveillance of social media. How is the Arab Spring 2.0 different? Firstly, both sides realise that it is a battle of attrition for the hearts and minds and it would be unrealistic to expect a quick and decisive breakthrough. Secondly, both sides have realised that the use of violent means is counterproductive. Both sides, therefore, feign a sense of injured innocence. Thirdly, the protestors have shunned all the traditional symbols of religious, sectarian, ideological nature and have not allowed infiltration by any anti-government elements. They have no political preferences or foreign paradigms to espouse. Their demand for complete systemic overhaul may appear simplistic and utopian, but it avoids inner contradictions and friction, which can be exploited by the authorities. They have also managed to avoid any foreign affiliation, which is a kiss of death in a fairly xenophobic and Byzantine polity. Fourthly, as a tactic, the protestors have avoided frontal, set-piece confrontations with the authorities; Instead, they have learned to be mobile and obstruct the elite at its various eco-political choke points and symbols, such as highways, banks, ports and airports. The fifth big difference this time is the erosion of state’s capacity to make concessions: The previous Arab Spring took place in an era of high oil prices, giving the authorities more resources to make token concessions to ease popular penury. This time, the discredited State apparatus has not only lost its aura of invincibility but also the financial capacity to buy its way out of this quandary. All bets are off as this uncharted confrontation between an irresistible force and an immovable object plays out. Eventually, a Sudan-type solution appears the most probable outcome. It would be recalled that after a chaotic and protracted confrontation with protestors, the military clique removed long-ruling President Oman Hassan Al-Bashir in April this year. After much shuffling of political cards, an impromptu association of Sudanese professionals and the new military dispensation negotiated an agreement to share power in a transitional period. IGAD, a regional body, led by Ethiopian Prime Minister facilitated this arrangement. It is quite ironical that after nearly a lost decade which has witnessed unprecedented strife, death and destruction, the antagonists are rewriting their respective rule-books to provide for a degree of non-violence and mutual accommodation. This turn of Arab Spring 2.0 has two salient points for India too. Firstly, it is quite symbolic that as we mark the centenary of Jalianwala Bagh Massacre this year, Bapu’s message of non-violence finds relevance in the Arab world, a longstanding redoubt of “might is right” aphorism. Secondly, as experience in Sudan and elsewhere has demonstrated, the Arab Spring is essentially about the deficit of political institutions, which are either non-existent or weak or lacking in credibility. The various attempts to cover this flaw by fostering the personality cults are being rejected(5). During the first Arab Spring, India was disinterested outsider, while our traditional penchant for non-interference in other’s domestic affairs is understandable, we are also a thriving democracy. Over the past seven decades, we have evolved a number of credible and effective political institutions suited for a multi-ethnic, tolerant society such as those affected by Arab Spring 2.0. This proven set of institutions in a typical 'Third World' setting is far more relevant to the needed politico-economic solutions than any other available model(6). Besides, India has better acceptability in the Arab world than most outsiders. All these attributes provide us with the capacity to hold the hands of these societies to help them make the right political choices. We need to step out of shadows this time and play a constructive role in ensuring that the Arab Spring 2.0 has a more positive and harmonious outcome. This could be the best tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the apostle of non-violent Satyagraha, as we mark his 150th birth anniversary. 1. Where a largely peaceful transition to democratic polity took place as was affirmed by the second general election last month 2. Which are still raging with considerable foreign involvement. 3. Although Iraq, OPEC’s second largest oil producer, is expected to earn $ 79 billion in oil revenue this year, 22% of its population lives below poverty line and a third of Iraqi youth are unemployed. 4. “official arrogance” in Algerian Arabic dilect 5. For instance, when the Lebanese demonstrators demand “all of them out”, they essentially want a technocrats-led government new institutions to replace all the current set of politicians who have played sectarian musical chairs for past three decades at public expense. 6. For example, our expertise and experience in holding elections can be helpful in creating a credible and elegant exit from this confrontation. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

From Arab Spring to Arab Satyagraha?

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said Sunday he was seeking "non-aggression" agreements with Gulf Arab nations that do not formally recognise the country as a prelude to possible future peace deals.

Details of the proposal were not made public, but it was the latest sign of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-parliament-sworn-in-without-new-government-253564">Israel's</a> push to improve ties with Gulf Arab nations with whom it has no formal diplomatic relations.

Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory has long served as a major factor preventing peace deals with Arab countries, but common concerns over Iran are widely seen as having brought them closer in recent years.

"Recently, I have been promoting, under the backing of the United States, a political initiative to sign 'non-aggression agreements' with the Arab Gulf states," Katz wrote on Twitter.

"The historic move will put an end to the conflict and allow civilian cooperation until peace agreements are signed."

Katz said he discussed the initiative with unnamed Arab foreign ministers and US President Donald Trump's outgoing envoy Jason Greenblatt while attending the UN General Assembly in late September.

A spokesman for Katz declined to provide further details for now, and it was not clear how much progress he has made in the endeavour.

Only two Arab countries -- Jordan and Egypt -- have peace treaties with Israel, but there have been overt signs in recent months of improved relations with Gulf nations.

A year ago, <a href="Benjamin Netanyahu’s rival Benny Gantz calls off Israel unity government talks: Reports">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> held surprise talks with Oman's Sultan Qaboos in Muscat.

Katz in July said he had met his Bahraini counterpart publicly for the first time during a visit to Washington.

In late June, a group of Israeli journalists attended the US-led economic conference on Israeli-Palestinian peace in Bahrain.

All did not go well, however, when a group of invitees from Arab states visited Israel in July.

Palestinians hurled abuse and chairs at a member of the delegation -- a Saudi blogger -- as he visited east Jerusalem's Old City.

East Jerusalem was occupied by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War and later annexed in a move never recognised by the international community.

Israel sees the entire city as its capital, while the Palestinians see the eastern sector as the capital of their future state.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said Sunday he was seeking "non-aggression" agreements with Gulf Arab nations that do not formally recognise the country as a prelude to possible future peace deals.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said Sunday he was seeking "non-aggression" agreements with Gulf Arab nations that do not formally recognise the country as a prelude to possible future peace deals. Details of the proposal were not made public, but it was the latest sign of Israel's push to improve ties with Gulf Arab nations with whom it has no formal diplomatic relations. Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory has long served as a major factor preventing peace deals with Arab countries, but common concerns over Iran are widely seen as having brought them closer in recent years. "Recently, I have been promoting, under the backing of the United States, a political initiative to sign 'non-aggression agreements' with the Arab Gulf states," Katz wrote on Twitter. "The historic move will put an end to the conflict and allow civilian cooperation until peace agreements are signed." Katz said he discussed the initiative with unnamed Arab foreign ministers and US President Donald Trump's outgoing envoy Jason Greenblatt while attending the UN General Assembly in late September. A spokesman for Katz declined to provide further details for now, and it was not clear how much progress he has made in the endeavour. Only two Arab countries -- Jordan and Egypt -- have peace treaties with Israel, but there have been overt signs in recent months of improved relations with Gulf nations. A year ago, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held surprise talks with Oman's Sultan Qaboos in Muscat. Katz in July said he had met his Bahraini counterpart publicly for the first time during a visit to Washington. In late June, a group of Israeli journalists attended the US-led economic conference on Israeli-Palestinian peace in Bahrain. All did not go well, however, when a group of invitees from Arab states visited Israel in July. Palestinians hurled abuse and chairs at a member of the delegation -- a Saudi blogger -- as he visited east Jerusalem's Old City. East Jerusalem was occupied by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War and later annexed in a move never recognised by the international community. Israel sees the entire city as its capital, while the Palestinians see the eastern sector as the capital of their future state.

Israeli minister seeks 'non-aggression' pacts with Arab nations

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/3-man-crew-from-italy-russia-us-blasts-off-to-international-space-station-382">A three-man crew </a>including an Emirati who became the first Arab to reach the International Space Station returned to Earth safely on Thursday and were in good shape, the Russian space agency Roscosmos said.

Hazzaa Al-Mansoori of the United Arab Emirates touched down in the Kazakh steppes at 1059 GMT along with NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin, who both survived a failed launch to the ISS last year.

"The crew that returned to Earth is feeling well," Roscosmos said immediately after the landing.

Roscosmos footage from the landing site in central Kazakhstan showed Mansoori smiling as he sat wrapped in an Emirati flag after leaving the capsule.

Hague and Ovchinin completed a 203-day mission aboard the orbiting laboratory while Mansoori's two crewmates from his September 25 launch -- Russia's Oleg Skripochka and NASA's Jessica Meir -- are staying on as part of a six-member team.

Although Mansoori's mission was short -- &nbsp;eight days in total -- it has been the source of great pride in the UAE, a newcomer to the world of space with ambitions to send an unmanned probe to orbit Mars by 2021.

UAE leaders were quick to hail his safe return.

Abu Dhabi's powerful Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan hailed the mission in a Twitter post.

"Congratulations to the people of the UAE for this historic achievement. Zayed's sons will fulfil our ambition to reach Mars," the Crown Prince wrote.

Mansoori has been active on Twitter where he shared photos of the UAE and Mecca -- Islam's holiest site -- from the space station.

On Thursday, he posted a view of space taken from the station's Cupola panoramic observatory module and paid tribute to UAE founding father Sheikh Zayed.

"With fear and pride, I am returning with Zayed's ambition achieved. We are not done yet, and we will never be. To bring back the golden era of Arab astronauts," he wrote.

Mansoori's blast-off from the launchpad that sent Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin into space was roared on by a large crowd at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre in the UAE, where he has been feted as a hero.

Dubai's Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest skyscraper, was lit up at the moment of the launch.

The 35-year-old former military pilot's whirlwind mission has had wall-to-wall coverage in Arab media.

He is expected to receive an ecstatic welcome when he returns to the UAE following a stopover at the Roscosmos training base in Star City outside Moscow.

Mansoori flew to the ISS after the UAE signed a contract with Roscosmos to allow him to become a "spaceflight participant," a term used for people from outside the main space agencies who take short trips to the station.

Russia currently enjoys a monopoly on manned flights to the ISS.

The first Arab in outer space was Saudi Arabia's Sultan bin Salman Al-Saud, who flew on a US shuttle mission in 1985.

Two years later, Syrian air force pilot Muhammed Faris spent a week aboard the Soviet Union's Mir space station.

As part of its space plans, the UAE has also announced its aim to become the first Arab country to send an unmanned probe to orbit Mars by 2021, naming it "Hope".

While onboard, Mansoori donned Emirati dress, treated crew members to local snacks and participated in scientific experiments including a time-perception study that saw him sport a blindfold.

The return from space of Ovchinin and Hague came a year after their rocket failed to launch in the first accident of its kind in Russia's post-Soviet history. &nbsp;

The two men took off in a Soyuz rocket for the ISS in October 2018, but an accident minutes after blast-off sent them plunging back to Earth.

The pair launched again -- this time without hiccups -- to begin Ovchinin's second and Hague's first mission aboard the ISS in February.

The ISS -- a rare example of cooperation between Russia and the West -- has been orbiting Earth at about 28,000 kilometres (17,000 miles) an hour since 1998.

A three-man crew including an Emirati who became the first Arab to reach the International Space Station returned to Earth safely on Thursday and were in good shape, the Russian space agency Roscosmos said.

A three-man crew including an Emirati who became the first Arab to reach the International Space Station returned to Earth safely on Thursday and were in good shape, the Russian space agency Roscosmos said. Hazzaa Al-Mansoori of the United Arab Emirates touched down in the Kazakh steppes at 1059 GMT along with NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexey Ovchinin, who both survived a failed launch to the ISS last year. "The crew that returned to Earth is feeling well," Roscosmos said immediately after the landing. Roscosmos footage from the landing site in central Kazakhstan showed Mansoori smiling as he sat wrapped in an Emirati flag after leaving the capsule. Hague and Ovchinin completed a 203-day mission aboard the orbiting laboratory while Mansoori's two crewmates from his September 25 launch -- Russia's Oleg Skripochka and NASA's Jessica Meir -- are staying on as part of a six-member team. Although Mansoori's mission was short -- eight days in total -- it has been the source of great pride in the UAE, a newcomer to the world of space with ambitions to send an unmanned probe to orbit Mars by 2021. UAE leaders were quick to hail his safe return. Abu Dhabi's powerful Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan hailed the mission in a Twitter post. "Congratulations to the people of the UAE for this historic achievement. Zayed's sons will fulfil our ambition to reach Mars," the Crown Prince wrote. Mansoori has been active on Twitter where he shared photos of the UAE and Mecca -- Islam's holiest site -- from the space station. On Thursday, he posted a view of space taken from the station's Cupola panoramic observatory module and paid tribute to UAE founding father Sheikh Zayed. "With fear and pride, I am returning with Zayed's ambition achieved. We are not done yet, and we will never be. To bring back the golden era of Arab astronauts," he wrote. Mansoori's blast-off from the launchpad that sent Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin into space was roared on by a large crowd at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre in the UAE, where he has been feted as a hero. Dubai's Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest skyscraper, was lit up at the moment of the launch. The 35-year-old former military pilot's whirlwind mission has had wall-to-wall coverage in Arab media. He is expected to receive an ecstatic welcome when he returns to the UAE following a stopover at the Roscosmos training base in Star City outside Moscow. Mansoori flew to the ISS after the UAE signed a contract with Roscosmos to allow him to become a "spaceflight participant," a term used for people from outside the main space agencies who take short trips to the station. Russia currently enjoys a monopoly on manned flights to the ISS. The first Arab in outer space was Saudi Arabia's Sultan bin Salman Al-Saud, who flew on a US shuttle mission in 1985. Two years later, Syrian air force pilot Muhammed Faris spent a week aboard the Soviet Union's Mir space station. As part of its space plans, the UAE has also announced its aim to become the first Arab country to send an unmanned probe to orbit Mars by 2021, naming it "Hope". While onboard, Mansoori donned Emirati dress, treated crew members to local snacks and participated in scientific experiments including a time-perception study that saw him sport a blindfold. The return from space of Ovchinin and Hague came a year after their rocket failed to launch in the first accident of its kind in Russia's post-Soviet history. The two men took off in a Soyuz rocket for the ISS in October 2018, but an accident minutes after blast-off sent them plunging back to Earth. The pair launched again -- this time without hiccups -- to begin Ovchinin's second and Hague's first mission aboard the ISS in February. The ISS -- a rare example of cooperation between Russia and the West -- has been orbiting Earth at about 28,000 kilometres (17,000 miles) an hour since 1998.

First Arab on International Space Station returns to Earth

Saudi Arabia said on Friday that it will offer tourist visas for the first time, opening up the ultra-conservative kingdom to holidaymakers as part of a push to diversify its economy away from oil.

Kickstarting tourism is one of the centrepieces of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform programme to prepare the biggest Arab economy for a post-oil era.

The announcement comes just two weeks after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/aramco-ipo-how-saudi-arabia-caught-between-united-states-and-china-245687">devastating attacks</a> on Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure –- blamed by Washington on Iran - which roiled global energy markets.

"Opening Saudi Arabia to international tourists is a historic moment for our country," tourism chief Ahmed al-Khateeb said in a statement.

"Visitors will be surprised... by the treasures we have to share -- five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a vibrant local culture and breathtaking natural beauty."

Saudi Arabia will open applications for online tourist visas to citizens of 49 countries on Saturday, Bloomberg News quoted Khateeb as saying.

Khateeb said the kingdom will also ease its strict dress code for foreign women, allowing them to go without the body-shrouding abaya robe that is still mandatory public wear for Saudi women.

Foreign women, however, will be required to wear <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/saudi-arabia-continues-to-stifle-women-dissent-201335">"modest clothing"</a>, he added.

Hard sell

The austere kingdom, which forbids alcohol and has a strict social code, is seen by many as a hard sell for tourists.

Prince Mohammed is seeking to change that through a sweeping liberalisation drive that has brought new cinemas, mixed-gender concerts and sporting extravaganzas to Saudi Arabia.

International criticism of the kingdom's human rights record, including the gruesome murder last year of critic Jamal Khashoggi and a crackdown on female activists, could further put off foreign visitors, observers say.

Fears of a regional conflict after the September 14 attacks on state oil giant Aramco may also dampen the kingdom's appeal to holidaymakers.

Visas are currently restricted to expat workers, their dependents and Muslim pilgrims travelling to holy sites in Mecca and Medina.

Saudi Arabia last year began issuing visas to visitors to attend sporting and cultural events in a bid to kickstart tourism.

The government, reeling from low oil prices, says it hopes tourism will contribute up to 10 per cent of the gross domestic product by 2030, compared to three percent currently.

It says <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-vision-2030-embodies-saudi-quest-for-modernity-26015">by 2030 it aims to attract up to 100 million annual visits</a> by both domestic and foreign tourists.

The sector is expected to create up to one million tourism jobs, the government says, as the kingdom battles high youth unemployment.

Saudi Arabia has splurged billions in an attempt to build a tourism industry from scratch.

In 2017, the kingdom announced a multi-billion dollar project to turn 50 islands and other pristine sites on the Red Sea into luxury resorts.

The country is also developing historic sites such as the centuries-old Mada'in Saleh, home to sandstone tombs of the same civilisation which built the Jordanian city of Petra.

Saudi Arabia said on Friday that it will offer tourist visas for the first time, opening up the ultra-conservative kingdom to holidaymakers as part of a push to diversify its economy away from oil.

Saudi Arabia said on Friday that it will offer tourist visas for the first time, opening up the ultra-conservative kingdom to holidaymakers as part of a push to diversify its economy away from oil. Kickstarting tourism is one of the centrepieces of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 reform programme to prepare the biggest Arab economy for a post-oil era. The announcement comes just two weeks after devastating attacks on Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure –- blamed by Washington on Iran - which roiled global energy markets. "Opening Saudi Arabia to international tourists is a historic moment for our country," tourism chief Ahmed al-Khateeb said in a statement. "Visitors will be surprised... by the treasures we have to share -- five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a vibrant local culture and breathtaking natural beauty." Saudi Arabia will open applications for online tourist visas to citizens of 49 countries on Saturday, Bloomberg News quoted Khateeb as saying. Khateeb said the kingdom will also ease its strict dress code for foreign women, allowing them to go without the body-shrouding abaya robe that is still mandatory public wear for Saudi women. Foreign women, however, will be required to wear "modest clothing", he added. Hard sell The austere kingdom, which forbids alcohol and has a strict social code, is seen by many as a hard sell for tourists. Prince Mohammed is seeking to change that through a sweeping liberalisation drive that has brought new cinemas, mixed-gender concerts and sporting extravaganzas to Saudi Arabia. International criticism of the kingdom's human rights record, including the gruesome murder last year of critic Jamal Khashoggi and a crackdown on female activists, could further put off foreign visitors, observers say. Fears of a regional conflict after the September 14 attacks on state oil giant Aramco may also dampen the kingdom's appeal to holidaymakers. Visas are currently restricted to expat workers, their dependents and Muslim pilgrims travelling to holy sites in Mecca and Medina. Saudi Arabia last year began issuing visas to visitors to attend sporting and cultural events in a bid to kickstart tourism. The government, reeling from low oil prices, says it hopes tourism will contribute up to 10 per cent of the gross domestic product by 2030, compared to three percent currently. It says by 2030 it aims to attract up to 100 million annual visits by both domestic and foreign tourists. The sector is expected to create up to one million tourism jobs, the government says, as the kingdom battles high youth unemployment. Saudi Arabia has splurged billions in an attempt to build a tourism industry from scratch. In 2017, the kingdom announced a multi-billion dollar project to turn 50 islands and other pristine sites on the Red Sea into luxury resorts. The country is also developing historic sites such as the centuries-old Mada'in Saleh, home to sandstone tombs of the same civilisation which built the Jordanian city of Petra.

Saudi Arabia to offer tourist visas for the first time

Israel's Arab parties are set to be the largest non-ruling bloc in parliament - and could even lead the opposition - if a national unity government emerges from Tuesday's election.

A surge in turnout gave the Arab-dominated Joint List 13 of the Knesset's 120 seats, making it the third-largest grouping behind Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing Likud Party, with 31 seats, and Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White, with 33.

That would make the Joint List the largest opposition grouping in parliament if a unity government takes shape, a realistic possibility even though Gantz rebuffed Netanyahu's initial invitation.

No party drawn from the 21 per cent Arab minority has ever been part of an Israeli government. But if Joint List head Ayman Odeh, 44, becomes opposition leader, he would receive monthly briefings from the Mossad intelligence agency and meet visiting heads of state.

This would provide a platform to voice Arab complaints of discrimination against them and give a bigger platform to Arab parties that differ with parties drawn from the country's Jewish majority.

"It is an interesting position, never before held by someone from the Arab population. It has a lot of influence," Odeh told reporters outside his home in Haifa, a mixed Arab and Jewish city in northern Israel.

But although the Joint List will be the single biggest group, other opposition parties combined would have enough seats to block his appointment through an absolute majority vote, analysts said.

"There's no way the other parties will agree to have Ayman Odeh as head of the opposition, and grant our community recognition and legitimacy," said Aida Touma-Sliman, an Arab lawmaker from Odeh's Hadash faction.

Arab lawmakers often call for an end to Israel's occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital and the dismantling of Israel's settlements in the West Bank.

"Symbolic win"

The Arab community in Israel is mainly descendants of the Palestinians who remained in Israel after its creation in 1948, and some in the younger generation openly identify as Palestinian.

They make up 1.9 million of Israel's 9 million population, and often complains of discrimination in health, education and housing, living in cities such as Nazareth and Acre in the north and Bedouin towns in the southern Negev desert.

The Mossawa Center rights group says Israel's state budget often favours Jews, allocating more funds to Jewish localities and schools than to Arab ones. Some 47% of Arab citizens live in poverty, far above a national average of 18%, it says.

However, Netanyahu's Likud party counters that its 15 billion shekel ($4.19 billion) investment plan for the Arab sector during the last parliament "is the largest such commitment in Israel’s history", according to Eli Hazan, Likud's foreign affairs director.

In Tuesday's election, Odeh and his group of four Arab parties ran a united front and Arab turnout increased sharply. That helped them regain seats lost in April when they were divided and turnout plummeted.

The Joint List held up its stronger showing on Tuesday's rerun as a victory over what is described as an "unprecedented campaign of incitement against the Arab public" by Netanyahu and right-wing parties.

Netanyahu made allegations of voter fraud in Arab communities an issue in his election campaign, and sought to deploy cameras to the country's polling centres in what Arab leaders described an attempt to scare off voters. Israel's top court refused to allow cameras.

Eid Jbaili, a 55-year-old gym teacher from Haifa, said he boycotted the April election but voted on Tuesday "because my community's leaders showed they could exude unity in the face of adversity".

But Jbaili was unsure an Arab opposition leader would be able to provide anything beyond a "small symbolic win" for his community.

"We still won't be decision-makers in this country," he said.

Israel's Arab parties are set to be the largest non-ruling bloc in parliament - and could even lead the opposition - if a national unity government emerges from Tuesday's election.

Israel's Arab parties are set to be the largest non-ruling bloc in parliament - and could even lead the opposition - if a national unity government emerges from Tuesday's election. A surge in turnout gave the Arab-dominated Joint List 13 of the Knesset's 120 seats, making it the third-largest grouping behind Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing Likud Party, with 31 seats, and Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White, with 33. That would make the Joint List the largest opposition grouping in parliament if a unity government takes shape, a realistic possibility even though Gantz rebuffed Netanyahu's initial invitation. No party drawn from the 21 per cent Arab minority has ever been part of an Israeli government. But if Joint List head Ayman Odeh, 44, becomes opposition leader, he would receive monthly briefings from the Mossad intelligence agency and meet visiting heads of state. This would provide a platform to voice Arab complaints of discrimination against them and give a bigger platform to Arab parties that differ with parties drawn from the country's Jewish majority. "It is an interesting position, never before held by someone from the Arab population. It has a lot of influence," Odeh told reporters outside his home in Haifa, a mixed Arab and Jewish city in northern Israel. But although the Joint List will be the single biggest group, other opposition parties combined would have enough seats to block his appointment through an absolute majority vote, analysts said. "There's no way the other parties will agree to have Ayman Odeh as head of the opposition, and grant our community recognition and legitimacy," said Aida Touma-Sliman, an Arab lawmaker from Odeh's Hadash faction. Arab lawmakers often call for an end to Israel's occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital and the dismantling of Israel's settlements in the West Bank. "Symbolic win" The Arab community in Israel is mainly descendants of the Palestinians who remained in Israel after its creation in 1948, and some in the younger generation openly identify as Palestinian. They make up 1.9 million of Israel's 9 million population, and often complains of discrimination in health, education and housing, living in cities such as Nazareth and Acre in the north and Bedouin towns in the southern Negev desert. The Mossawa Center rights group says Israel's state budget often favours Jews, allocating more funds to Jewish localities and schools than to Arab ones. Some 47% of Arab citizens live in poverty, far above a national average of 18%, it says. However, Netanyahu's Likud party counters that its 15 billion shekel ($4.19 billion) investment plan for the Arab sector during the last parliament "is the largest such commitment in Israel’s history", according to Eli Hazan, Likud's foreign affairs director. In Tuesday's election, Odeh and his group of four Arab parties ran a united front and Arab turnout increased sharply. That helped them regain seats lost in April when they were divided and turnout plummeted. The Joint List held up its stronger showing on Tuesday's rerun as a victory over what is described as an "unprecedented campaign of incitement against the Arab public" by Netanyahu and right-wing parties. Netanyahu made allegations of voter fraud in Arab communities an issue in his election campaign, and sought to deploy cameras to the country's polling centres in what Arab leaders described an attempt to scare off voters. Israel's top court refused to allow cameras. Eid Jbaili, a 55-year-old gym teacher from Haifa, said he boycotted the April election but voted on Tuesday "because my community's leaders showed they could exude unity in the face of adversity". But Jbaili was unsure an Arab opposition leader would be able to provide anything beyond a "small symbolic win" for his community. "We still won't be decision-makers in this country," he said.

A historic first? Israel's Arabs could lead parliamentary opposition

The Arab World, As Well As Russia, Have Prioritised India Over Pakistan.

#WIONEDIT: Is Pakistan The New Palestine?

King Mohammed VI of Morocco on Monday announced the launch later this year of a committee charged with elaborating a new development model to tackle social inequalities, while also urging a government reshuffle.

The new committee will serve as an advisory body to make suggestions to improve reforms in fields such as education, health, agriculture, investment and taxation.

The monarch made the speech to celebrate 20 years as king of the country.

The 55-year-old king enumerated some key achievements of his rule, with emphasis on infrastructure developments such as highways, high-speed railway, ports, renewable energy and urban development.

The monarchy delegated some of its powers to an elected government in 2011 after protesters called for a constitutional referendum.

Morocco has largely been insulated from the turmoil that hit North Africa and the Middle East since the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011 although it regularly sees protests over economic and social problems.

King Mohammed VI of Morocco on Monday announced the launch later this year of a committee charged with elaborating a new development model to tackle social inequalities, while also urging a government reshuffle.

King Mohammed VI of Morocco on Monday announced the launch later this year of a committee charged with elaborating a new development model to tackle social inequalities, while also urging a government reshuffle. The new committee will serve as an advisory body to make suggestions to improve reforms in fields such as education, health, agriculture, investment and taxation. The monarch made the speech to celebrate 20 years as king of the country. The 55-year-old king enumerated some key achievements of his rule, with emphasis on infrastructure developments such as highways, high-speed railway, ports, renewable energy and urban development. The monarchy delegated some of its powers to an elected government in 2011 after protesters called for a constitutional referendum. Morocco has largely been insulated from the turmoil that hit North Africa and the Middle East since the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011 although it regularly sees protests over economic and social problems.

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI celebrates 20 years on the throne

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-government-to-put-forward-brexit-bill-in-june-218823">British government</a> broke the law by allowing arms exports to Saudi Arabia that might have been used in the conflict in Yemen, a British court ruled on Thursday.

While the court's decision does not mean Britain must immediately halt arms exports, it does mean that there is a stay on the granting of next arms export licenses to Saudi Arabia - Britain's richest Arab ally.

"The Court of Appeal has concluded that the process of decision-making by the government was wrong in law in one significant respect," judge Terence Etherton said as he handed down the ruling.

He added that the government made "no concluded assessments of whether the Saudi-led coalition had committed violations of international humanitarian law in the past, during the Yemen conflict."

London will have to reconsider the way it handles such export licenses to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/saudi-arabia-and-the-wests-right-wing-a-dubious-alliance-187880">Saudi Arabia</a>.

"The decision of the court today does not mean that licenses to export arms to Saudi Arabia must immediately be suspended," he said.

"It does mean that the UK government must reconsider the matter, must make the necessary assessments about past episodes of concern, allowing for the fact that, in some cases, it will not be possible to conclude."

The case was brought by the Campaign Against the Arms Trade against the British government.

"The Saudi Arabian regime is one of the most brutal and repressive in the world, yet, for decades, it has been the largest buyer of UK-made arms," said Andrew Smith from the Campaign Against Arms Trade. "The arms sales must stop immediately."

Rosa Curling, a solicitor of law firm Leigh Day which acted for the campaigners, said the government will now have to reconsider whether to suspend existing export licenses and reconsider its decision to continue to grant licenses.

The British government broke the law by allowing arms exports to Saudi Arabia that might have been used in the conflict in Yemen, a British court ruled on Thursday.

The British government broke the law by allowing arms exports to Saudi Arabia that might have been used in the conflict in Yemen, a British court ruled on Thursday. While the court's decision does not mean Britain must immediately halt arms exports, it does mean that there is a stay on the granting of next arms export licenses to Saudi Arabia - Britain's richest Arab ally. "The Court of Appeal has concluded that the process of decision-making by the government was wrong in law in one significant respect," judge Terence Etherton said as he handed down the ruling. He added that the government made "no concluded assessments of whether the Saudi-led coalition had committed violations of international humanitarian law in the past, during the Yemen conflict." London will have to reconsider the way it handles such export licenses to Saudi Arabia. "The decision of the court today does not mean that licenses to export arms to Saudi Arabia must immediately be suspended," he said. "It does mean that the UK government must reconsider the matter, must make the necessary assessments about past episodes of concern, allowing for the fact that, in some cases, it will not be possible to conclude." The case was brought by the Campaign Against the Arms Trade against the British government. "The Saudi Arabian regime is one of the most brutal and repressive in the world, yet, for decades, it has been the largest buyer of UK-made arms," said Andrew Smith from the Campaign Against Arms Trade. "The arms sales must stop immediately." Rosa Curling, a solicitor of law firm Leigh Day which acted for the campaigners, said the government will now have to reconsider whether to suspend existing export licenses and reconsider its decision to continue to grant licenses.

Britain acted unlawfully on Saudi arms exports, court rules

Momentous developments across North and East Africa suggest the long-drawn-out process of political transition in the region — as well as the Middle East — is still in its infancy. So too does popular discontent in Syria, despite eight years of war, as well as in Egypt, notwithstanding a 2013 military coup that rolled back the advances of protests in 2011 that toppled President Hosni Mubarak.

What developments across North Africa and the Middle East demonstrate is that the drivers of the 2011 Arab Spring that swept the region and forced the leaders of Egypt, Tunisia, Libya and Yemen to resign not only still exist, but constitute black swans that can upset the apple cart at any moment. The situation also suggests that the regional struggle between forces of change and ancient régimes and militaries backed by the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia is far from decided. 
 
Algeria and Sudan

If anything, protesters in Algeria and Sudan have learned something from the failed 2011 results: Don’t trust militaries, even if they seemingly align themselves with demonstrators, and don’t surrender the street until protester demands have been met. Distrust of the military has prompted an increasing number of Sudanese protesters to question whether chanting “the people and the army are one” is still appropriate. Slogans such as “freedom, freedom” and “revolution, revolution” alongside calls on the military to protect the protesters have become more frequent.

The protests in Algeria and Sudan have entered a critical phase in which protesters and militaries — worried that they could be held accountable for decades of economic mismanagement, corruption and repression — are tapping in the dark. With protesters emboldened by their initial successes in forcing leaders to resign, both the demonstrators and the militaries, including officers with close ties to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are internally divided about how to proceed. Moreover, neither side has any real experience in managing the crossroads at which they find themselves, while it is dawning on the militaries that their tired playbooks are not producing results.

In a telling sign, Sudan’s interim leader, Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman Burhan, praised his country’s “special relationship” with Saudi Arabia and the UAE as he recently met with a Saudi-Emirati delegation at the military compound in Khartoum, a focal point of the protests. Saudi Arabia has expressed support for the protests, in what many suspect is part of an effort to ensure that Sudan does not become a symbol of the power of popular sovereignty and its ability to defeat autocracy.

Syria

The ultimate outcome of the dramatic developments in Algeria and Sudan and how the parties maneuver is likely to have far-reaching consequences in a region pockmarked by powder kegs ready to explode. Mounting anger as fuel shortages caused by Western sanctions against Syria and Iran bring life to a halt have sparked rare and widespread public criticism of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government. The anger is fueled by reports that government officials cut in line at petrol stations to fill up their tanks and buy rationed cooking gas and take more than is allowed.

Syria is Here, an anonymous Facebook page that reports on economics in government-controlled areas, took officials to task after state-run television showed the oil minister, Suleiman al-Abbas, touring petrol stations that showed no signs of shortage. “Is it so difficult to be transparent and forward? Would that undermine anyone’s prestige? We are a country facing sanctions and boycotted. The public knows and is aware,” the Facebook page charged.

The manager of Hashtag Syria, another Facebook page, was arrested when the site demanded that the oil ministry respond to reports of anticipated price hikes with comments rather than threats. The site charged that the ministry was punishing the manager “instead of dealing with the real problem.” Syrian journalist Danny Makki said, “It [Syria] is a pressure cooker.”

Egypt and Libya 
 
Similarly, authorities in Egypt, despite blocking its website, have been unable to stop an online petition against proposed constitutional amendments that could extend the rule of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi until 2034. The petition, entitled Batel (meaning “void” in Arabic), is, according to Netblocks — a group that maps web freedom — one of an estimated 34,000 websites blocked by Egyptian internet providers in a bid to stymie opposition to the amendments.

President Sisi is a reminder of how far Arab militaries and their Gulf backers are willing to go in defense of their vested interests in a bid to oppose popular sovereignty. Libyan renegade Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar is another. General Haftar’s Libyan National Army (LNA) is attacking the capital Tripoli, the seat of the UN-recognised Libyan government that he and his Emirati, Saudi and Egyptian backers accuse of being dominated by Islamist terrorists.

The three Arab states’ military and financial support of Haftar is but the tip of the iceberg. 
 
The general has modeled his control of much of Libya on Sisi’s example of a military that not only dominates politics, but also the economy. As a result, the LNA is engaged in businesses ranging from waste management, metal scrap and waste export, and agricultural mega projects to the registration of migrant labor workers and control of ports, airports and other infrastructure. The LNA is also eyeing a role in the reconstruction of Benghazi and other war-devastated or underdeveloped regions.

What for now makes 2019 different from 2011 is that both sides of the divide realise that success depends on commitment to be in it for the long haul. Protesters also understand that trust in military assertions of support for the people can be self-defeating. They further grasp that they are up against a regional counterrevolution that has no scruples.

All of that gives today’s protesters a leg up on their counterparts from the Arab Spring of 2011. The jury is out on whether that will prove sufficient to succeed where the people of eight years ago failed. 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The Fair Observer. Read the <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/region/middle_east_north_africa/arab-world-algeria-sudan-protests-arab-spring-khalifa-haftar-libya-39083/">original article)</a>

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Momentous developments across North and East Africa suggest the long-drawn-out process of political transition in the region — as well as the Middle East — is still in its infancy.

Momentous developments across North and East Africa suggest the long-drawn-out process of political transition in the region — as well as the Middle East — is still in its infancy. So too does popular discontent in Syria, despite eight years of war, as well as in Egypt, notwithstanding a 2013 military coup that rolled back the advances of protests in 2011 that toppled President Hosni Mubarak. What developments across North Africa and the Middle East demonstrate is that the drivers of the 2011 Arab Spring that swept the region and forced the leaders of Egypt, Tunisia, Libya and Yemen to resign not only still exist, but constitute black swans that can upset the apple cart at any moment. The situation also suggests that the regional struggle between forces of change and ancient régimes and militaries backed by the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia is far from decided. Algeria and Sudan If anything, protesters in Algeria and Sudan have learned something from the failed 2011 results: Don’t trust militaries, even if they seemingly align themselves with demonstrators, and don’t surrender the street until protester demands have been met. Distrust of the military has prompted an increasing number of Sudanese protesters to question whether chanting “the people and the army are one” is still appropriate. Slogans such as “freedom, freedom” and “revolution, revolution” alongside calls on the military to protect the protesters have become more frequent. The protests in Algeria and Sudan have entered a critical phase in which protesters and militaries — worried that they could be held accountable for decades of economic mismanagement, corruption and repression — are tapping in the dark. With protesters emboldened by their initial successes in forcing leaders to resign, both the demonstrators and the militaries, including officers with close ties to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are internally divided about how to proceed. Moreover, neither side has any real experience in managing the crossroads at which they find themselves, while it is dawning on the militaries that their tired playbooks are not producing results. In a telling sign, Sudan’s interim leader, Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman Burhan, praised his country’s “special relationship” with Saudi Arabia and the UAE as he recently met with a Saudi-Emirati delegation at the military compound in Khartoum, a focal point of the protests. Saudi Arabia has expressed support for the protests, in what many suspect is part of an effort to ensure that Sudan does not become a symbol of the power of popular sovereignty and its ability to defeat autocracy. Syria The ultimate outcome of the dramatic developments in Algeria and Sudan and how the parties maneuver is likely to have far-reaching consequences in a region pockmarked by powder kegs ready to explode. Mounting anger as fuel shortages caused by Western sanctions against Syria and Iran bring life to a halt have sparked rare and widespread public criticism of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government. The anger is fueled by reports that government officials cut in line at petrol stations to fill up their tanks and buy rationed cooking gas and take more than is allowed. Syria is Here, an anonymous Facebook page that reports on economics in government-controlled areas, took officials to task after state-run television showed the oil minister, Suleiman al-Abbas, touring petrol stations that showed no signs of shortage. “Is it so difficult to be transparent and forward? Would that undermine anyone’s prestige? We are a country facing sanctions and boycotted. The public knows and is aware,” the Facebook page charged. The manager of Hashtag Syria, another Facebook page, was arrested when the site demanded that the oil ministry respond to reports of anticipated price hikes with comments rather than threats. The site charged that the ministry was punishing the manager “instead of dealing with the real problem.” Syrian journalist Danny Makki said, “It [Syria] is a pressure cooker.” Egypt and Libya Similarly, authorities in Egypt, despite blocking its website, have been unable to stop an online petition against proposed constitutional amendments that could extend the rule of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi until 2034. The petition, entitled Batel (meaning “void” in Arabic), is, according to Netblocks — a group that maps web freedom — one of an estimated 34,000 websites blocked by Egyptian internet providers in a bid to stymie opposition to the amendments. President Sisi is a reminder of how far Arab militaries and their Gulf backers are willing to go in defense of their vested interests in a bid to oppose popular sovereignty. Libyan renegade Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar is another. General Haftar’s Libyan National Army (LNA) is attacking the capital Tripoli, the seat of the UN-recognised Libyan government that he and his Emirati, Saudi and Egyptian backers accuse of being dominated by Islamist terrorists. The three Arab states’ military and financial support of Haftar is but the tip of the iceberg. The general has modeled his control of much of Libya on Sisi’s example of a military that not only dominates politics, but also the economy. As a result, the LNA is engaged in businesses ranging from waste management, metal scrap and waste export, and agricultural mega projects to the registration of migrant labor workers and control of ports, airports and other infrastructure. The LNA is also eyeing a role in the reconstruction of Benghazi and other war-devastated or underdeveloped regions. What for now makes 2019 different from 2011 is that both sides of the divide realise that success depends on commitment to be in it for the long haul. Protesters also understand that trust in military assertions of support for the people can be self-defeating. They further grasp that they are up against a regional counterrevolution that has no scruples. All of that gives today’s protesters a leg up on their counterparts from the Arab Spring of 2011. The jury is out on whether that will prove sufficient to succeed where the people of eight years ago failed. (This article was originally published on The Fair Observer. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The Battle for the future of the Arab World

Israel's Arab minority pledges to boycott election

Arab leaders slam US decision over Golan Heights

It is paradoxical that while the Arab world cried for democracy during the Arab Spring, the Algerian street was silent. Today the street of Algeria erupted again with a consequence that its incumbent President, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, had to forego his claim for Presidency for a fifth term.

For the past several weeks, thousands of Algerians took to the streets after President Bouteflika announced his decision to run in April’s presidential elections despite his serious health conditions caused by a stroke in 2013. Bouteflika took to power in 1999 after presidential elections in which he was the only running candidate. The outrage among citizens is the result of increasing unemployment, inequality, precarious work conditions, inflation, deteriorating social and economic conditions etc. Among the protestors are mostly youth, teachers, workers, students etc.&nbsp;

The fall of Bouteflika symbolises the continuity of fall of many dictators during Arab Spring: Ben Ali of Tunisia, Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, Muammar Gaddafi Libya, Saleh of Yemen. &nbsp;

Does this mean that eruption of Algerian street is likely to galvanize streets of another Arab world in the direction of democratic reforms? While it’s true that all regimes in the Arab world including the Gulf regimes have learnt the democratic lesson of Arab spring and accordingly introduced some cosmetic democratic reforms in their respective countries. 
 
However, this democratic tokenism is unable to fulfil the aspiration of social media savvy Arab youth. Therefore, in hindsight, it appears that Algerian protests are likely to push qualitative democratic reforms in the Arab countries. However, much will depend on the nature of the crisis of legitimacy of Arab states as well as a decline in the Sunni Shia narratives of conflict in West Asia.&nbsp;

Notwithstanding the uncertainty over democratic transition in view of what is considered a&nbsp;failure of Arab spring, the protesting street of Algeria has expanded the life of “Arab spring” and put a question mark on what is called as “Arab winter”? Algeria since early 1990’s has undergone many ups and downs including the most intense civil war between 1990 and 2001 at the same time it has been one of the most progressive nations of Arab world. Historically, Algeria symbolises the most potent face of anti-imperialism, people’s struggle against the regime and therefore, the current ongoing protest has potential to recenter agenda of equality and democracy not only with Algeria but in the wider Arab world.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
 
 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

It is paradoxical that while the Arab world cried for democracy during the Arab Spring, the Algerian street was silent. Today the street of Algeria erupted again with a consequence that its incumbent President, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, had to forego his claim for Presidency for a fifth term.

It is paradoxical that while the Arab world cried for democracy during the Arab Spring, the Algerian street was silent. Today the street of Algeria erupted again with a consequence that its incumbent President, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, had to forego his claim for Presidency for a fifth term. For the past several weeks, thousands of Algerians took to the streets after President Bouteflika announced his decision to run in April’s presidential elections despite his serious health conditions caused by a stroke in 2013. Bouteflika took to power in 1999 after presidential elections in which he was the only running candidate. The outrage among citizens is the result of increasing unemployment, inequality, precarious work conditions, inflation, deteriorating social and economic conditions etc. Among the protestors are mostly youth, teachers, workers, students etc. The fall of Bouteflika symbolises the continuity of fall of many dictators during Arab Spring: Ben Ali of Tunisia, Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, Muammar Gaddafi Libya, Saleh of Yemen. Does this mean that eruption of Algerian street is likely to galvanize streets of another Arab world in the direction of democratic reforms? While it’s true that all regimes in the Arab world including the Gulf regimes have learnt the democratic lesson of Arab spring and accordingly introduced some cosmetic democratic reforms in their respective countries. However, this democratic tokenism is unable to fulfil the aspiration of social media savvy Arab youth. Therefore, in hindsight, it appears that Algerian protests are likely to push qualitative democratic reforms in the Arab countries. However, much will depend on the nature of the crisis of legitimacy of Arab states as well as a decline in the Sunni Shia narratives of conflict in West Asia. Notwithstanding the uncertainty over democratic transition in view of what is considered a failure of Arab spring, the protesting street of Algeria has expanded the life of “Arab spring” and put a question mark on what is called as “Arab winter”? Algeria since early 1990’s has undergone many ups and downs including the most intense civil war between 1990 and 2001 at the same time it has been one of the most progressive nations of Arab world. Historically, Algeria symbolises the most potent face of anti-imperialism, people’s struggle against the regime and therefore, the current ongoing protest has potential to recenter agenda of equality and democracy not only with Algeria but in the wider Arab world. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Algerian Spring: Will it change the Arab course?

Israel is a multi-party parliamentary system based on the elections that are conducted once every four years on the national level and once every five years on the municipal level.&nbsp;

In 1969, Golda Meir was appointed fourth Prime Minister of Israel, thus becoming one of the first women in the democratic world to serve in her country’s highest office. Despite this achievement, however, the inclusion of women in Israel’s cabinets is far from impressive. Compared to other democracies, Israel's female representation is considered ‘average’.&nbsp;

However, the advocates for women are optimistic that in the upcoming elections, to be held on April 9, female representation will reach higher levels as in the recent municipal elections 13 women are elected as mayors.&nbsp;

In the span of 25 years, the number of women in the Knesset rose from seven after the elections in 1988 to 27 in the 2013 elections and 29 women in 2015 elections. This corresponds to 24.2 per cent of all parliamentarians, a share that ranks Israel 66th in the world. &nbsp;However, the top offices like Finance, Defence, and Interior – have never been held by women.&nbsp;

The only senior ministry ever headed by a woman is the Foreign Ministry. Golda Meir served as foreign minister from 1956 to 1966, and Tzipi Livni was a foreign minister from 2006 to 2009. Ministries like Education, Health and Communication have seen the greater representation of women. &nbsp;&nbsp;

However, contemporary Israeli politics is undergoing tremendous changes as female politicians are climbing the political ladder at a pace never seen before, for instance, leaders like Orli Levi-Abekasis formed her own political party, and Gesher will contest 2019 elections as she quit Yisrael Beiteinu after clashes with chairman Avigdor Lieberman.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Bar-Shalom is contesting elections from the new Achi Yisraeli party. Moreover, a number of Arab women have filed nominations for the upcoming elections. Dima Tayeh, an Arab Muslim, is going to contest election from the right-wing Likud party.&nbsp;

With women from such diverse social and economic background partaking in the election process, Israel will undergo a change that will benefit the future generations to come. &nbsp;

As we celebrate International Women’s day on March 8, the theme for which is “Think equal, build smart, innovate for change”, it is important that world leaders along with the citizens work together to create a gender equal world where we do not need one day to celebrate the social, political and economic achievements of women.&nbsp;

Let us pledge this women’s day to create a world where every day is a celebration in the lives of women. The first step towards this is by providing greater representation to women in political offices as that’s the hub of policymaking.&nbsp;

The political circle which was driven and run by male politicians has become more embracing for women in Israel as evident from the growth in the female representation in the last few elections.&nbsp;

However, what is important is that whether April elections prove to be a game changer for women in Israeli politics? As of now, it seems that women’s representation will not only increase but they will also get important profiles.&nbsp;

(The article is co-authored by Ms Sonam Bhavnani, PhD scholar, Amity Institute of Social Sciences)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

Israel is a multi-party parliamentary system based on the elections that are conducted once every four years on the national level and once every five years on the municipal level.

Israel is a multi-party parliamentary system based on the elections that are conducted once every four years on the national level and once every five years on the municipal level. In 1969, Golda Meir was appointed fourth Prime Minister of Israel, thus becoming one of the first women in the democratic world to serve in her country’s highest office. Despite this achievement, however, the inclusion of women in Israel’s cabinets is far from impressive. Compared to other democracies, Israel's female representation is considered ‘average’. However, the advocates for women are optimistic that in the upcoming elections, to be held on April 9, female representation will reach higher levels as in the recent municipal elections 13 women are elected as mayors. In the span of 25 years, the number of women in the Knesset rose from seven after the elections in 1988 to 27 in the 2013 elections and 29 women in 2015 elections. This corresponds to 24.2 per cent of all parliamentarians, a share that ranks Israel 66th in the world.  However, the top offices like Finance, Defence, and Interior – have never been held by women. The only senior ministry ever headed by a woman is the Foreign Ministry. Golda Meir served as foreign minister from 1956 to 1966, and Tzipi Livni was a foreign minister from 2006 to 2009. Ministries like Education, Health and Communication have seen the greater representation of women. However, contemporary Israeli politics is undergoing tremendous changes as female politicians are climbing the political ladder at a pace never seen before, for instance, leaders like Orli Levi-Abekasis formed her own political party, and Gesher will contest 2019 elections as she quit Yisrael Beiteinu after clashes with chairman Avigdor Lieberman. On the other hand, Bar-Shalom is contesting elections from the new Achi Yisraeli party. Moreover, a number of Arab women have filed nominations for the upcoming elections. Dima Tayeh, an Arab Muslim, is going to contest election from the right-wing Likud party. With women from such diverse social and economic background partaking in the election process, Israel will undergo a change that will benefit the future generations to come. As we celebrate International Women’s day on March 8, the theme for which is “Think equal, build smart, innovate for change”, it is important that world leaders along with the citizens work together to create a gender equal world where we do not need one day to celebrate the social, political and economic achievements of women. Let us pledge this women’s day to create a world where every day is a celebration in the lives of women. The first step towards this is by providing greater representation to women in political offices as that’s the hub of policymaking. The political circle which was driven and run by male politicians has become more embracing for women in Israel as evident from the growth in the female representation in the last few elections. However, what is important is that whether April elections prove to be a game changer for women in Israeli politics? As of now, it seems that women’s representation will not only increase but they will also get important profiles. (The article is co-authored by Ms Sonam Bhavnani, PhD scholar, Amity Institute of Social Sciences) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

2019 elections to be a game changer for women in Israeli politics?

The White House has reacted to the developments in Afghanistan even as an Arab divide seems to shadow the Afghan peace talks.

White House Spokesperson Sarah Sanders in a briefing said, "Our priority is to end the war in Afghanistan and to ensure there is never a base for terrorism in Afghanistan again. Negotiations are going to continue".

But the Arab divide is looming large on the Afghan peace talks.

The United Arab Emirates Ambassador to India Dr. Ahmed Albanna lashed out at Qatar for hosting "terrorists". Doha last week hosted the US Taliban talks.

He said, "Qataris are hosting terrorist and exporting terrorist from there country. Terrorist are graduates of Guantanamo".

Adding, "Qatar supports extremism and continues to interfere in internal affairs of other states. Qatar represents a threat."

It is interesting to add that Abu Dhabi has also hosted US Taliban talks.&nbsp;

Asked about Abu Dhabi hosting the talks, the ambassador replied, "In order to implement our vision, we are a country that will like to see peace in the region and will do utmost to eliminate terrorist groups or reaching out that can ease of problems in the region. UAE has created a unique position. We have taken action and we are a major player in the implementation of certain polices in the region."

UAE along with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, Senegal, Jordan, Djibouti severed ties with Qatar in 2017.

Currently, Qatari planes and ships are denied airspace and sea route to these countries.

The White House has reacted to the developments in Afghanistan even as an Arab divide seems to shadow the Afghan peace talks. White House Spokesperson Sarah Sanders in a briefing said, "Our priority is to end the war in Afghanistan and to ensure there is never a base for terrorism in Afghanistan again.

The White House has reacted to the developments in Afghanistan even as an Arab divide seems to shadow the Afghan peace talks. White House Spokesperson Sarah Sanders in a briefing said, "Our priority is to end the war in Afghanistan and to ensure there is never a base for terrorism in Afghanistan again. Negotiations are going to continue". But the Arab divide is looming large on the Afghan peace talks. The United Arab Emirates Ambassador to India Dr. Ahmed Albanna lashed out at Qatar for hosting "terrorists". Doha last week hosted the US Taliban talks. He said, "Qataris are hosting terrorist and exporting terrorist from there country. Terrorist are graduates of Guantanamo". Adding, "Qatar supports extremism and continues to interfere in internal affairs of other states. Qatar represents a threat." It is interesting to add that Abu Dhabi has also hosted US Taliban talks. Asked about Abu Dhabi hosting the talks, the ambassador replied, "In order to implement our vision, we are a country that will like to see peace in the region and will do utmost to eliminate terrorist groups or reaching out that can ease of problems in the region. UAE has created a unique position. We have taken action and we are a major player in the implementation of certain polices in the region." UAE along with Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, Senegal, Jordan, Djibouti severed ties with Qatar in 2017. Currently, Qatari planes and ships are denied airspace and sea route to these countries.

Afghan Peace talks: Arab divide shadows the talks as US says negotiations will continue

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-will-move-embassy-to-jerusalem-netanyahu-says-report-187399">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a> said Monday that Arab countries viewed Israel as an "indispensable ally" fighting Iran and the Islamic State group.

That evaluation, he told Brazil's Globo TV during a visit to Rio, has caused "a revolution in relations with the Arab world."

The comments came as Israel has stepped up air strikes on Iranian positions in neighbouring Syria, and as Israel digested an abrupt decision by President Donald Trump to withdraw US troops from Syria.

Netanyahu has repeatedly warned that Iran is trying to develop nuclear weapons to destroy his country.

Israel, he said, had shown itself to be active in battling "radical Islam, violent Islam — either the one led by radical Shiites led by Iran or the one led by the radical Sunnis led by Daesh (IS) and Al-Qaeda."

"Unfortunately we have not made any advance with the Palestinians. Half of them are already under the gun of Iran and of radical Islam," Netanyahu added.

Asked if he could ever contemplate sitting down with an Iranian leader to talk peace, Netanyahu replied: "If Iran remains committed to our destruction the answer is no."

The only way, he said, would be "if Iran undergoes a total transformation."

Netanyahu was in Brazil to attend Tuesday's inauguration of the Latin American country's new, pro-Israel president, Jair Bolsonaro.

On the sidelines of the ceremony, Netanyahu was to hold talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who is also among the visiting dignitaries.

They were expected to discuss the US troop pullout from Syria and Iranian activities in the Middle East.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly warned that Iran is trying to develop nuclear weapons to destroy his country.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that Arab countries viewed Israel as an "indispensable ally" fighting Iran and the Islamic State group. That evaluation, he told Brazil's Globo TV during a visit to Rio, has caused "a revolution in relations with the Arab world." The comments came as Israel has stepped up air strikes on Iranian positions in neighbouring Syria, and as Israel digested an abrupt decision by President Donald Trump to withdraw US troops from Syria. Netanyahu has repeatedly warned that Iran is trying to develop nuclear weapons to destroy his country. Israel, he said, had shown itself to be active in battling "radical Islam, violent Islam — either the one led by radical Shiites led by Iran or the one led by the radical Sunnis led by Daesh (IS) and Al-Qaeda." "Unfortunately we have not made any advance with the Palestinians. Half of them are already under the gun of Iran and of radical Islam," Netanyahu added. Asked if he could ever contemplate sitting down with an Iranian leader to talk peace, Netanyahu replied: "If Iran remains committed to our destruction the answer is no." The only way, he said, would be "if Iran undergoes a total transformation." Netanyahu was in Brazil to attend Tuesday's inauguration of the Latin American country's new, pro-Israel president, Jair Bolsonaro. On the sidelines of the ceremony, Netanyahu was to hold talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who is also among the visiting dignitaries. They were expected to discuss the US troop pullout from Syria and Iranian activities in the Middle East.

PM Netanyahu says Israel is Arabs' 'indispensable ally' against Iran

Brazil's far-right President-elect Jair Bolsonaro met with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-parliament-formally-sets-april-9-election-date-in-dissolution-vote-186749">Israeli Prime Minister</a> Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday and while both pledged to deepen ties, there was no announcement as some anticipated of Brazil moving its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-under-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-key-dates-177545">Netanyahu,</a> the first Israeli prime minister to visit Brazil, flew in to Rio de Janeiro to meet with Bolsonaro, an ideological ally who takes office on January 1 after his election victory in October. The two men had lunch in a fort on Copacabana beach before delivering statements.

"Israel is the promised land. Brazil is the land of promise," said Netanyahu, adding that Israel could help in areas such as economics, security, agriculture and water resources.

Bolsonaro pledged he would visit Israel by March as a way to thank Netanyahu for the gesture.

"We will be starting a difficult government from January, but Brazil has potential," Bolsonaro said. "So that we can overcome obstacles, we need good allies, good friends, good brothers, like Benjamin Netanyahu."

The two also visited a synagogue among tight security including snipers on nearby roofs, where Netanyahu emphasized his hopes the two countries could operate in a more aligned and friendly manner in the future.&nbsp;

Bolsonaro and top aides have repeatedly said he would move Brazil`s embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, but since his election, he has come under pressure to ditch the idea from powerful backers in the agricultural sector, who fear the decision would hurt their halal meat sales in Arab countries.

The Arab League had told Bolsonaro that moving the embassy to Jerusalem would be a setback for relations with Arab countries, according to a letter seen by Reuters earlier in December.

Such a move by Bolsonaro would be a sharp shift in Brazilian foreign policy as it was for the United States when President Donald Trump relocated the US embassy to Jerusalem in May. Brazil has traditionally backed a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Some political observers had speculated that Bolsonaro would use Netanyahu's visit as the perfect way to make the announcement.

Bolsonaro discussed Israel during a meeting in Rio with Trump`s national security adviser, John Bolton, late last month.

Although Bolsonaro could well make the announcement at a later stage, a senior US State Department official said on Friday the US government expected him to eventually make the move.&nbsp;

"We also welcome President-elect Bolsonaro`s comments regarding moving the Brazilian embassy in Israel to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv in support of Israel`s sovereign right to have its capital of Jerusalem recognized by nations around the world. We look forward to welcoming many more of our friends and allies in Jerusalem," the official said.

Brazil's far-right President-elect Jair Bolsonaro met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday and while both pledged to deepen ties, there was no announcement as some anticipated of Brazil moving its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem.

Brazil's far-right President-elect Jair Bolsonaro met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday and while both pledged to deepen ties, there was no announcement as some anticipated of Brazil moving its embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. Netanyahu, the first Israeli prime minister to visit Brazil, flew in to Rio de Janeiro to meet with Bolsonaro, an ideological ally who takes office on January 1 after his election victory in October. The two men had lunch in a fort on Copacabana beach before delivering statements. "Israel is the promised land. Brazil is the land of promise," said Netanyahu, adding that Israel could help in areas such as economics, security, agriculture and water resources. Bolsonaro pledged he would visit Israel by March as a way to thank Netanyahu for the gesture. "We will be starting a difficult government from January, but Brazil has potential," Bolsonaro said. "So that we can overcome obstacles, we need good allies, good friends, good brothers, like Benjamin Netanyahu." The two also visited a synagogue among tight security including snipers on nearby roofs, where Netanyahu emphasized his hopes the two countries could operate in a more aligned and friendly manner in the future. Bolsonaro and top aides have repeatedly said he would move Brazil`s embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, but since his election, he has come under pressure to ditch the idea from powerful backers in the agricultural sector, who fear the decision would hurt their halal meat sales in Arab countries. The Arab League had told Bolsonaro that moving the embassy to Jerusalem would be a setback for relations with Arab countries, according to a letter seen by Reuters earlier in December. Such a move by Bolsonaro would be a sharp shift in Brazilian foreign policy as it was for the United States when President Donald Trump relocated the US embassy to Jerusalem in May. Brazil has traditionally backed a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Some political observers had speculated that Bolsonaro would use Netanyahu's visit as the perfect way to make the announcement. Bolsonaro discussed Israel during a meeting in Rio with Trump`s national security adviser, John Bolton, late last month. Although Bolsonaro could well make the announcement at a later stage, a senior US State Department official said on Friday the US government expected him to eventually make the move. "We also welcome President-elect Bolsonaro`s comments regarding moving the Brazilian embassy in Israel to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv in support of Israel`s sovereign right to have its capital of Jerusalem recognized by nations around the world. We look forward to welcoming many more of our friends and allies in Jerusalem," the official said.

No embassy move announced as Brazil's Bolsonaro hosts Israel's Netanyahu

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