The situation in the Gulf of Aqaba has forced long-standing enemies to work together in order to preserve the regional environment. Peace has brought to the forefront the possibilities of establishing new forms of cooperation within the framework of environmental concerns. By signing the historic “Peace Accord,” Jordan and Israel dedicated themselves to the numerous environmental side agreements that were encompassed within the treaty. However, all four Gulf- bordering states – Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia – have taken steps and are committed to protect areas of particular beauty along their own coasts. The complicated nature of providing protection, however, has stalled the process as countries have worked out boundary issues and provisions for oil spills and other such ecological disasters. Plans for multilateral cooperation to protect the fragile environment of the Gulf of Aqaba are finally coming to fruition. Integrated regional efforts to protect the Gulf of Aqaba must incorporate mechanisms fostering environmentally sustainable development along its shores.
