Al Jazara
روایت خاورمیانه 
Kosovo, a Muslim country in the Balkans, has recently reached an agreement with Israel that could have deep impacts on international relations and regional security. This country has moved towards Israel following U.S. support and in order to align with Washington's policies. In this context, Kosovo has joined the establishment of an international force for Gaza that helps provide security and training for the Palestinian police.
Historical and Political Background
Kosovo was not long ago recognized as an autonomous province in Serbia. After political repression and bloody wars in the 1990s, Kosovo achieved independence and has since strengthened its relations with various countries, especially the United States and NATO. In this regard, Nexhmedin Spahiu, a university professor and political analyst in Pristina, has pointed to the importance of this agreement, stating that Kosovo feels it has a moral debt to the U.S.
Read more: New Israeli Attacks on Southern Lebanon; Heavy Explosions in Sour and Kfar Tabnit
Relations with Israel and Their Impact
Kosovo's relations with Israel have been shaped within the framework of U.S. policies. Under the Washington agreement in September 2020, Kosovo committed to opening an embassy in Jerusalem, and Israel recognized Kosovo in February 2021. This action is considered a major diplomatic victory for Kosovo. Donika Amini, a researcher at the University of Graz, views this relationship as an important political achievement for Kosovo and emphasizes that this approach could help strengthen security and military cooperation with Israel.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Albin Kurti, Kosovo sees this role as an opportunity to repay its historical debts to the U.S. Given that Serbia still does not recognize Kosovo, U.S. and NATO support remain two crucial factors in ensuring the security of this country.
Amini also points out that Kosovo seeks to participate in international efforts for peace and security, but its lack of membership in the United Nations has limited its options. In this context, participation in high-profile initiatives could help strengthen Kosovo's national identity and expand its international integration.
The recent war in Israel against Gaza, which began after Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians, and Kosovo is seeking to provide aid to Gaza. Amini states that this situation reflects internal tensions in Kosovo, particularly regarding how to engage with Serbia and its stance towards Gaza.
Read more: China Requests Iran's Help to Contain the Houthis · Security Talks in Lebanon in Paris Focused on Alternatives After UNIFIL
