Establishment of Full Diplomatic Relations between Egypt and Israel

On February 26, 1980, Egypt and Israel established full diplomatic relations, marking a significant milestone in Middle Eastern diplomacy. This event was a direct outcome of the Camp David Accords, which were signed in September 1978, and the subsequent Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty signed on March 26, 1979.

Background

The Camp David Accords were brokered by U.S. President Jimmy Carter and involved Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin. The Accords consisted of two frameworks: one for the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel and another for the broader peace in the Middle East, including the Palestinian territories.

Key Events Leading Up to February 26, 1980

1. Camp David Accords (September 1978): These agreements laid the groundwork for peace by addressing key issues such as the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Sinai Peninsula, which Israel had occupied since the Six-Day War in 1967, and the normalization of relations between the two nations.

2. Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty (March 26, 1979): This treaty formally ended the state of war between Egypt and Israel. It included provisions for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Sinai Peninsula and the recognition of each state’s sovereignty.

3. Implementation Phase: Following the treaty, both countries worked on implementing its terms, which included the phased withdrawal of Israeli troops and the establishment of diplomatic relations.

February 26, 1980: Establishment of Diplomatic Relations

On this date, Egypt and Israel exchanged ambassadors, formally establishing full diplomatic relations. This was a historic moment as Egypt became the first Arab country to officially recognize Israel. The exchange of ambassadors symbolized a new era of cooperation and dialogue between the two nations.

Significance and Aftermath

• Regional Impact: The establishment of diplomatic relations was a breakthrough in the Arab-Israeli conflict, setting a precedent for future peace agreements between Israel and other Arab nations.

• Domestic Reactions: In Egypt, the peace treaty and subsequent normalization of relations with Israel were controversial and led to significant political backlash. President Anwar Sadat faced criticism from other Arab nations and within Egypt, culminating in his assassination in 1981.

• Long-term Consequences: The peace between Egypt and Israel has endured, serving as a cornerstone for stability in the region. It paved the way for future peace initiatives, including the Oslo Accords and the Israel-Jordan Peace Treaty.

The establishment of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Israel on February 26, 1980, remains a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern history, demonstrating the potential for diplomacy to resolve longstanding conflicts.