In a significant diplomatic gesture, Spain welcomed Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Madrid, marking their first meeting since Spain officially recognised Palestine as a state on May 28, alongside Ireland and Norway. This show of support for Palestine comes amid rising tensions, as the UN member states recently called for a non-binding resolution to end Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories within 12 months, stating it undermines peace prospects. The resolution has drawn ire from Israel, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seeks Western unity for Israel’s “cause” in response to this growing support for Palestine.

But Hussain Sajwani, chairman of Middle Eastern property development firm DAMAC, says he doesn’t expect President Donald Trump to secure a deal in the Middle East this year.