Israel's Envoy to UAE Predicts Another Arab Nation Joining Abraham Accords Soon

Israel's Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Yossi Shelley, predicted on Tuesday that another Arab nation will join the Abraham Accords within the next four to six months, potentially Kuwait. Shelley, who previously served as Director-General of the Prime Minister's Office, stated in an interview with Kan News that "everyone is working on it" and that Kuwaiti officials are beginning to understand the implications of recent regional shifts, suggesting they might be the next to normalize ties with Israel.

Shelley also addressed reports claiming that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu before the October 7th Hamas attack. Shelley, who was present in the UAE during that period, denied these reports, stating, "I don't recall any warning or any discussion about it." He emphasized that he had never heard such a claim during his time in various cabinet meetings from March to June.

Regarding the impact of these publications on UAE-Israel relations, Shelley believes the issue has passed. He noted that any statement from the Emiratis on the matter would have complicated things for all parties involved, and that those who "read between the lines" understand the situation. He concluded by highlighting the positive trajectory of Israel's relations with the UAE, observing increased visits and collaborations, some of which are not publicly reported due to the sensitive nature of the region.