Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Netanyahu suggests US, Israel cooperate to establish ‘Middle East NATO’


(MENAFN) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has put forward a bold initiative during his fourth address to the US Congress, advocating for the establishment of a military alliance in the Middle East akin to NATO, named the "Abraham Alliance." This proposed bloc aims to unite countries in the region against what Netanyahu described as the escalating threat posed by Iran.

Drawing parallels to NATO's role in countering the Soviet Union during the Cold War, Netanyahu emphasized the strategic necessity for the United States and Israel to forge a robust security alliance to confront Iran's growing influence and aggression. He pointed to recent collaborative efforts during an Iranian missile and drone attack on Israel, where the US and UK provided assistance in defense operations, highlighting a glimpse of the potential alliance's capabilities.

Netanyahu expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden for his role in fostering this nascent alliance, as well as to former President Donald Trump for his efforts in brokering the historic "Abraham Accords" between Israel and several Arab nations. These accords have reshaped regional dynamics by establishing diplomatic relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors.

The proposed "Abraham Alliance," according to Netanyahu, invites countries that are at peace with or aspire to peace with Israel to join forces against the common threat posed by Iran. He argued that combatting Iran's radicalism and its pursuit of nuclear capabilities is not just a matter of regional security but a crucial defense of American interests and values.

Netanyahu's initiative underscores the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Middle East, where traditional alliances are being redefined in response to shifting threats and opportunities for cooperation. The proposal sets the stage for further diplomatic negotiations and strategic alignments aimed at strengthening regional stability and countering Iran's influence across the Middle East and beyond.

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