Can the Abraham Accords Be This Century’s Magna Carta?
The signing of the Abraham Accords marked an unprecedented step towards regional and global peace. However, there is no single unified agreement that all parties have signed, revealing significant gaps that need attention.
Historical Context: Magna Carta and Modern Agreements
The Magna Carta, signed in 1215 by the King of England, limited royal authority and laid the groundwork for modern European concepts of human rights and constitutional law. In contrast, today’s treaties, contracts, or agreements are typically expected to be understood, accepted, and upheld by all signatories under clear shared terms.
Contradictions Between Western and Islamic Legal Frameworks
Examining Western international conventions alongside Islamic law uncovers fundamental contradictions that complicate adherence to shared agreements like the Abraham Accords.
Expanding the Abraham Accords
Following the recent ceasefire in Gaza, there is renewed momentum to bring more Arab nations into the Abraham Accords. Notably, as of November 7, 2025, Kazakhstan has joined, partly due to the determined efforts of the U.S. Trump Administration and the Israeli government’s military strategy.
Need for Review and Clarity
A thorough review of the Abraham Accords is necessary because no single, binding document exists that encompasses all parties’ commitments. As Michel Calvo highlights in his August 5, 2025 paper for the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, “Will More Countries Reconsider Their Core Beliefs and Sign the Abraham Accords?” the documents vary widely:
- Some are detailed accords spanning four pages.
- Others are brief one-page declarations.
- And some are unsigned by all involved parties.
“Actually, some signed Accords are four pages, some one-page declarations, and other versions not even signed by all parties.” – Michel Calvo
This diversity in documentation underscores the need for a unified framework to strengthen the Accords' legitimacy and effectiveness.
Author’s Summary
The Abraham Accords represent a historic peace effort but require a clearer, unified agreement to become as transformative and durable as the Magna Carta.