Israel’s Pacific opportunity

Israel is actively pursuing development partner status with the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), a move that signifies a deeper engagement with the Indo-Pacific region. This initiative comes as the Pacific becomes an increasingly contested area, with intensifying competition between China and Taiwan, and a recent nuclear-capable missile test by Beijing. Israel's interest is driven by the consistent diplomatic support it receives from several Pacific Island nations in international forums, including recent UN votes. Papua New Guinea and Fiji have recently opened embassies in Jerusalem, with Naoero intending to follow, and Israel reciprocated by opening a regional embassy in Suva, Fiji, in June. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar stated Israel aims to be a "strategic partner to the Pacific Islands Forum."

• Israel's new ambassador to Fiji, Maya Yaron, previously served in Taiwan and Beijing, providing valuable experience in navigating the region's complex geopolitical landscape.
• The 55th PIF Leaders Meeting in Palau (August 31-September 4) highlights the challenges, as Palau, a Taiwan ally, hosted Taiwan's foreign minister, prompting warnings from China.
• Israel's proposed contribution to the PIF will focus on technological expertise in areas like water security, agriculture, climate adaptation, and cybersecurity, rather than political involvement in the China-Taiwan dispute.
• Gaining development partner status would provide Israel with a structured connection to these diplomatically significant countries and further its broader Indo-Pacific engagement strategy.