President Trump Says More Nations Want to Join Abraham Accords Following “12-Day War”

U.S. president claims renewed interest in Middle East normalization deal after Israeli-U.S. strikes against Iran’s nuclear network

U.S. President Donald J. Trump has announced that multiple nations have expressed interest in joining the Abraham Accords, signaling a potential resurgence of Middle East diplomacy following what some are calling the region’s most dangerous standoff in years  the so-called “12-Day War” involving Israel, the U.S., and Iran.

Speaking at a press briefing in Palm Beach on Friday, Trump described the current diplomatic momentum as a “historic opportunity” to extend the landmark normalization agreement signed during his first term.

“Several countries have told us they want in,” said Trump. “They see the strength of the alliance, the peace it brought, and they want to be part of that success.”

The Abraham Accords: A Quick Recap

Initially signed in September 2020 during Trump’s first term, the Abraham Accords normalized diplomatic relations between Israel and a group of Arab nations, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco.

The agreement was widely seen as a diplomatic breakthrough in a region long marked by hostility toward Israel. However, talks with other potential signatories, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Oman, stalled after the change of administration in 2021, and tensions in the region have since escalated.

A Tense Flashpoint: The 12-Day War

Interest in reviving the Accords has surged following this month’s brief but intense military conflict the “12-Day War” in which Israel, reportedly with logistical and cyber support from the U.S., launched targeted strikes against Iranian nuclear sites.

Iran retaliated with ballistic missile launches and cyberattacks, but ultimately pulled back under pressure from diplomatic and military coalitions in the region. Analysts say this new geopolitical reality has reshaped strategic calculations among Arab nations that previously hesitated to engage openly with Israel.

 Who Might Be Next?

While President Trump did not specify which countries are seeking to join, sources close to the administration pointed to Oman, Mauritania, and Indonesia as potential candidates, along with quiet overtures from Libya’s transitional government.

“The reality is, the Abraham Accords work,” said Trump. “They bring trade, security, and peace. And now more nations want that.”

Saudi Arabia’s crown prince Mohammed bin Salman has also hinted at a future agreement, though officials say any move would require concessions on the Palestinian issue, which remains a sticking point.

Regional Shifts and Strategic Implications

The renewed interest in the Accords could redefine security alliances in the Middle East, particularly amid growing cooperation between Israel and Sunni-majority states against Shia Iran.

Experts warn, however, that any expansion must be carefully managed to avoid further alienating Iran, which has already threatened to withdraw from remaining nuclear monitoring agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

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