26 February 1980

Egypt and Israel establish full diplomatic relations.

The establishment of diplomatic relations between Egypt and Israel is a significant event in the history of the Middle East. It marked a pivotal moment in the region’s geopolitics and has had far-reaching implications for peace and stability.

The peace treaty between Egypt and Israel was signed on March 26, 1979, following the Camp David Accords negotiated by U.S. President Jimmy Carter, Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin. The treaty ended decades of hostility and conflict between the two countries, including several wars, notably the Arab-Israeli War of 1948, the Suez Crisis of 1956, and the Six-Day War of 1967.

Key provisions of the peace treaty included the mutual recognition of each other’s sovereignty and the establishment of full diplomatic relations, including the exchange of ambassadors, trade, and cooperation in various fields such as tourism, culture, and security.

This historic agreement was a breakthrough in the Arab-Israeli conflict and significantly changed the dynamics of the region. It paved the way for subsequent peace negotiations between Israel and its other Arab neighbors, notably Jordan, which signed a peace treaty with Israel in 1994.

Despite occasional tensions and challenges, the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel has largely endured, contributing to stability in the region and facilitating cooperation on issues of mutual interest. However, it’s essential to note that while diplomatic relations have been established, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains unresolved, and efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace agreement in the region continue.