The Washington Declaration was signed by Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Jordanian King Hussein in a ceremony held at the White House, marking a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern history. This declaration established the framework for future relations between Israel and Jordan, emphasizing the importance of peace and coexistence between the two nations. The agreement built upon earlier negotiations that led to a shared understanding of security arrangements, water rights, and economic cooperation. President Bill Clinton played a crucial role as a mediator, supporting both nations in their transition from adversaries to partners. The signing ceremony was attended by high-level officials from both countries, symbolizing a new era of collaboration.

Prior to the signing, relations between Israel and Jordan had been significantly strained due to the Arab-Israeli conflict and the ongoing hostilities that arose after the establishment of Israel in 1948. The Washington Declaration was part of a broader peace process in the region, which included the Oslo Accords between Israel and the Palestinians. The efforts seen in Washington exemplified the transformative potential of diplomacy, which ultimately led to an official peace treaty in October of the same year. The declaration not only reinforced the political resolve of both leaders but also demonstrated the commitment to peace among Arab states in the broader context of Middle Eastern diplomacy.