"It was a strategic error on our part to become enthusiastic over the peace process
and, as a result, we have been exposed as Israelis".
"All Israel's business connections in Arab states have been frozen or severed for political reasons. Israelis who continue to trade in the Gulf are operating under a foreign identity". This was reported today (Sunday) to “Globes", by sources in Jerusalem and businessmen operating in the Arab world.
"It was a strategic error on our part to become enthusiastic over the peace process and, as a result, we have been exposed as Israelis in the Arab states. Had we kept our foreign hats on, we would not have been cut out", said some businessmen. "This is evidenced by the fact that we recently opened an office under the name of the foreign firm we work with, and it is the only one that is netting us business in the Gulf".
A delegation of businessmen from Qatar, that was slated to visit Israel over the next few weeks, cancelled its visit on government orders following the bloodshed in the Territories. The delegation was to have focused on co-operation in the energy, agriculture and water sectors, primarily in a joint venture format.
Most Omani companies have severed ties with Israeli firms and cancelled forthcoming projects. Tunisia has cancelled a co-operation plan. Difficulties in doing business with Morocco, encountered even before the change of regime, have become more acute. Moroccan businessmen have cancelled co-operation plans.