In a first. Two Islamic countries take big step against Israel
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Bahrain recently took a significant diplomatic step by recalling its ambassador from Israel and terminating all economic relations with the country. This decision is primarily motivated by Bahrain's strong support for the Palestinian cause and the rights of the Palestinian people.
To provide context, in September 2020, Bahrain, alongside the United Arab Emirates (UAE), signed the Abraham Accord with Israel in the United States, where the former President, Donald Trump, hosted the historic event. The main objective of this agreement was to establish normalized relations between these Arab nations and Israel, with Sudan and Morocco later joining the initiative.
The United States played a crucial role in brokering these agreements, aiming to encourage more Arab countries to recognize Israel. In addition to diplomatic ties, these agreements also facilitated trade deals and military cooperation between Bahrain, the UAE, and Israel, starting in 2020.
Conversely, in a separate development, the Tunisian parliament has begun discussions on a new law that seeks to make it illegal for individuals or entities to have normal relations with Israel. The proposed bill defines "normalization" as any form of recognition of the "Zionist entity" or the establishment of direct or indirect ties with it. Such actions would be categorized as "high treason."
These developments occur against the backdrop of ongoing hostilities, with Israel's bombing of Gaza continuing and the tragic death toll surpassing 9,000.
Those found guilty of "normalizing" relations with Israel under the proposed Tunisian law could face severe penalties, including prison sentences ranging from 6 to 10 years and fines ranging from 10,000 to 100,000 dinars (approximately $3,155 to $31,553). Repeat offenders could even face life imprisonment.
