Significance
In October, Netanyahu travelled to Oman -- the first visit there by an Israeli premier in decades. In the past few years, relations between Israel and most of the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states have warmed, but this has not been publicised. More recently, GCC states have become less concerned whether their relations with Israel become public knowledge. Meanwhile, the United States is encouraging rapprochement as one of the anchors of its Middle East policy.
Impacts
Netanyahu may soon visit Bahrain, the first public visit by an Israeli leader to the country.
Relations with Qatar will follow a separate track to other Gulf states.
A political opening would create economic opportunities.
