It's pretty clear the Equestria is the MLP world's version of America. From the city names, and even the culture. But what's the MLP world's version of Israel? Here's what I'm thinking:

Once, the Griffon Empire was one of the most powerful countries in the world. But as all empires do, she fell to the next: The Arabian Empire conquered much of the lands of the former Griffon Empire, including Jaroamalot. But eventuality, the Griffins would strike back. The Griffin Empire was dead, but the various Griffin Kingdoms would unite to recover some of their lost lands, including Jaroamalot.

But all was not well after the Griffin re-conquest. From time to time: Fighting would break out between the Griffins and the Arabians, and Jaroamalot would be one of the battlegrounds. In an effort to restore peace to the land, and create a buffer-state between the two powers: Princess Celestia of Equestria was made the Queen of Jaroamalot.

It worked! Jaroamalot became a buffer-state between the Griffins and Arabians. Nether side was willing to invade her, and risk the wrath of Celestia and Equestria. And now, a thousand years later: Jaroamalot is still at peace.