On May 25, 2026, Donald Trump announced his request for countries including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey to join the Abraham Accords, which aim to normalize relations with Israel. He indicated that this request is part of a broader agreement with Iran, suggesting that if Iran signs a deal with the U.S., it would be welcomed into the accords.
Trump emphasized the complexity of the negotiations and expressed optimism about the willingness of these nations to participate, although he acknowledged that some may have reservations. He noted that negotiations with Iran are progressing well but did not provide details on the timeline for a potential agreement.
The Abraham Accords, originally signed by the UAE and Bahrain in 2020, marked a significant shift in Middle Eastern relations, and Trump's push for expansion could have lasting implications for regional diplomacy and stability. However, Saudi Arabia's reluctance to join the accords remains a notable hurdle, despite previous optimism regarding their participation following a ceasefire in Gaza.
Egypt and Jordan, which already have relations with Israel, are also part of this evolving diplomatic landscape