A Breakthrough for Peace

Yael Eckstein  |  August 19, 2020

Until last week, only two Arab nations had peace agreements with the Jewish state. First, in 1979, Israel signed a peace treaty with Egypt, and then, in 1994, Israel and Jordan signed a peace agreement.

The Abraham Accord

However, last Thursday, history was made when the United Arab Emirates became the third Arab nation to normalize ties with Israel. The peace treaty, known as the Abraham Accord, is of course named after the biblical patriarch Abraham, a figure revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. It came about through the efforts of the United States and is a monumental accomplishment with the potential to change the dynamics of the Middle East in an overwhelmingly positive way.

This breakthrough provides some unexpected and much-needed good news in a world facing unprecedented challenges. As an Israeli, I’m elated by the news, which promises so many blessings for the Holy Land. As an American, I’m proud that the efforts and determination of the US played an important part in bringing about this development. As a mother, I feel encouraged that this move towards peace brings our region closer to a safer and better future for all of our children. And as a person of faith, I see the hand of God working on behalf of His people, fighting our battles, and bringing prophecies to fruition.

Opening the Door to Peace

The Abraham Accord isn’t just a commitment to cease hostilities. This agreement will encourage collaboration between the two countries in areas including medicine, technology, and security, and will promote tourism and dialogue. Israel has long been completely alone and in a constant state of conflict with her neighbors, in spite of her tireless efforts to establish peace. This shift towards peaceful relations changes everything.

There is a concept in Judaism that teaches, “mitzvah gorreret mitzvah,” one good deed leads to another good deed. We believe that positive actions give way to more positive developments. The courageous step taken by the UAE has opened the door for more Arab nations to take the same step towards peace and prosperity with Israel – and we are already hearing reports that more treaties could be on their way.

‘Give Thanks to the Lord’

We serve a wondrous God and He is doing miraculous things in our lifetime! The signing of the Abraham Accords brings Israel closer to fulfilling her dream of peaceful coexistence with her neighbors. It is the answer to the prayers of millions around the world who have prayed for the peace of Jerusalem. It is a breakthrough that has opened the door to peace when for decades that door seemed like it would remain closed forever.

I keep thinking about the verse in Isaiah 43:19 where God says, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” God is doing a new thing in our time – He is creating a pathway for peace where there seemed to be none. He is creating opportunities for Israel to flourish and prosper in ways we never thought possible. And He is giving us a glimpse into messianic times when the wolf will finally lay down with the lamb.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever” (Psalms 136:1). I hope you will join me in giving thanks to God and praising Him for the wonders He is doing in our times – and in praying for the miracles that are yet to come!

With blessings from the Holy Land,