Students rocked by anti-Israel campus protests see first-hand the success of Trump-brokered Abraham Accords
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Dozens of American college students recently embarked on a transformative journey to Israel and the United Arab Emirates over the winter break, where they had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the successes of the historic Abraham Accords. This trip came at a time when tensions on college campuses in the United States were running high due to the ongoing war in Israel.
A total of 43 undergraduate students from various universities across the country participated in a 10-day trip to Israel and the UAE through the Israel on Campus Coalition’s Geller International Fellowship. During their visit, the students engaged with business leaders, academics, and political figures to gain a deeper understanding of Middle Eastern culture and the significance of the Abraham Accords, which were brokered under President Trump’s administration in 2020.
One of the participants, Columbia University senior Eden Yadegar, expressed gratitude for the eye-opening experience, stating, “Witnessing the successes of the Abraham Accords firsthand with a group of college students who are passionate about peace and coexistence has been a poignant reminder of what the future of the Middle East can hold.” Yadegar emphasized the importance of peace, security, and coexistence, highlighting the positive impact of the United States, Israel, and the UAE.
The Abraham Accords, a groundbreaking peace agreement between Israel and the UAE, marked a significant milestone in the region. The UAE and Bahrain both recognized Israel’s sovereignty and established full diplomatic relations, paving the way for increased cooperation and mutual benefits among the countries involved.
Throughout the fellowship, students had the opportunity to engage with experts such as Israeli politician Ruth Wasserman Lande and Middle East expert Dan Feferman to discuss entrepreneurship and coexistence in the region post-Accords. They also met with Jonathan Conricus from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and Saudi YouTuber Loay Alsharef to delve into diplomacy and peacebuilding efforts under the accords.
Israel on Campus Coalition CEO Jacob Baime commended the fellowship for nurturing the next generation of pro-Israel leaders and strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship. He highlighted the program’s role in equipping students with a deeper understanding of Israel and fostering a commitment to advocacy and informed dialogue on college campuses.
University of Southern California senior Aidan Bloomstine described the trip as “the opportunity of a lifetime” and expressed optimism for peace and prosperity in the region. Similarly, University of Michigan senior Sam Heller emphasized the transformative nature of the experience, particularly in light of recent conflicts in Israel and the rise of antisemitism on college campuses.
The Geller International Fellowship, generously sponsored by Martin and Lauren Geller, aims to empower young leaders to champion the principles of the Abraham Accords and strengthen the bonds between the U.S., Israel, and the UAE. The Gellers underscored the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders who are committed to advancing peace and cooperation in the Middle East.
In a time of heightened tensions and divisive rhetoric, the Geller International Fellowship serves as a beacon of hope and unity, inspiring students to advocate for peace, understanding, and dialogue in an increasingly complex world. Through education, engagement, and collaboration, the fellowship continues to shape the future of pro-Israel activism on college campuses and beyond.
