Diplomacy is converting friends into allies, neutrals into friends and adversaries into neutrals
Abraham Accords
The Abraham Accords, heralding normalization of ties between Israel and Arab nations like the UAE and Bahrain, have significant implications for India’s foreign policy, presenting both opportunities & challenges.
Positive Impacts:
India's strategic autonomy is reinforced, as closer ties between Israel-Saudi Arabia align with its policy of dehyphenation—engaging with nations based on bilateral merits.
Stanly Johnny, these accords complement India's 'Think West' policy by offering greater room to balance its relationships with both Saudi Arabia-Iran. Enhanced regional stability, stemming from improved Israel-Gulf Arab relations, benefits India, which has deep economic & security interests in West Asia.
Harsh V. Pant notes that these ties could diversify India's energy sources and enhance connectivity routes.
Furthermore, India's deft diplomacy gains momentum, fostering partnerships without entanglement in regional rivalries.
Negative Impacts:
However, the cooperation b/w Israel & Sunni-majority Gulf nations might strain India’s ties with Iran, a vital partner for energy and connectivity projects like Chabahar. The sectarian divide in West Asia, intensified by closer Israel-Saudi ties, complicates India's balancing act. Pakistan's dilemma—whether to align with pro-Israel Arab states or Iran—adds uncertainty to India-Pakistan relations.
P.R. Kumaraswamy highlights concerns about ensuring that Israel's growing influence does not overshadow India's strategic objectives, necessitating coordination to maintain an economic-security equilibrium.
Thus, while the accords offer avenues for strengthening ties with Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, India must navigate these shifts tactfully to safeguard its regional interests and promote stability.