Weekly Briefing 02/06/25
Welcome to the weekly briefing from the UK Abraham Accords Group. Here we will keep you updated on news related to the Abraham Accords, diplomatic relations between the signatories, developments related to future Arab-Israel normalisations, and events to look out for this week.
Headlines
Saudi warned Iran to reach nuclear deal with Israel or risk nuclear strike Reuters
Amidst fears of nuclear talks between the US and Iran stalling, Saudi leaders urged Iran to seriously engage with the nuclear talks and come to a resolution with Trump immediately. Saudi highlighted how if Iran failed to do so, Israeli strikes would be inevitable. This is occurring in the backdrop of Iran’s faltering proxies and sanctions further debilitating the economy.
‘’Israel is a future security partner’’ - Al-Sharaa in interview to Jewish Journal All Israel News
In an unprecedented interview with the Jewish Journal, Syrian President outlines his vision for reconciliation and rebuilding the nation, distancing himself from his jihadi past. He highlighted the common enemies between Israel and Syria, showcasing the scope for peace and partnership between the two states, which he believes could be modelled off the 1974 Disengagement Agreement (Dofa Accord).
White House says US has sent Iran detailed and acceptable proposal for nuclear deal Times of Israel
The US has sent a new proposal to Iran amidst the anticipated 6th round of negotiation talks, which Iran has confirmed receipt of. This proposal is said to be ‘’detailed and acceptable’’, containing one of the major stipulations that Iran cannot obtain a bomb. A recent UN report outlined how Iran has repeatedly carried out secret nuclear activities without declaring them to the watchdog, confirming fears of those who say negotiation with Iran is futile.
Must read
Jordan-Israel security cooperation continues quietly but unabated Atlantic Council
Whilst there have been many diplomatic tensions between Israel and Jordan in recent years, their security and intelligence cooperation continues to thrive. United over mutual threats from Iran- backed militias and previously ISIS, Israeli and Jordanian officials frequently meet to discuss scope for security cooperation. Additionally, the $1.45 billion in aid that Jordan receives on the US hinges on their behaviour towards Israel, a further incentive towards building ties.
Why a Maximalist Approach to Iran Talks Won’t Work Foreign Policy
Azodi argues that the key factor that explains the impasse between the US and Iran in nuclear talks is Iran’s belief in their right to full enrichment capabilities. This stands at odds with the US, who according to Witkoff won’t even allow 1% enrichment capability. The IRGC’s ambitious attitude seems to be inherited from the Shah, but their nuclear capabilities are now used as a bargaining chip to for concessions from the West. Given the highly valued status of nuclear enrichment in Iran, almost as a symbol of national power, a durable deal will need to include mutual compromise, rather than one-sided surrender as some on both sides are suggesting.
Key Meetings
Pope Leo XIV met with Israeli and Palestinian peace entrepeneurs in the Vatican. This meeting marked the first time that Israeli and Palestinian peace representatives were welcomed by the Pope, signifying the growing significance of resolving the conflict in the Middle East for Pope Leo.
The UNSC held a meeting this week on the 2-state solution as well as the aid crisis in Gaza. A variety of representatives spoke, with those on both sides urging for aid to be depoliticised. Speakers for Palestine recounted humanitarian castastrophes taking place in Gaza whilst the Israeli and US representative discussed how Hamas are repeatedly rejected ceasefire proposals and hoarding aid.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita received the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the 5th UK-Morocco strategic dialogue.
In Parliament this week
House of Commons
Tuesday 3rd June - 2pm:
International Development Committee - Oral evidence for displaced people
Wednesday 4th June - 12 noon:
10 minute Gaza motion
