The Arab League summit in Cairo reaffirmed support for Gaza’s reconstruction and welcomed new Syrian and Lebanese leaders, reflecting a shift away from Iranian influence. Emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and security, the leaders seek stronger ties with other Arab states. The summit highlighted the need for a unified approach to address ongoing conflicts, particularly regarding Israel’s military presence in southern territories.
The recent Arab League summit held in Cairo concluded with a unified commitment to Gaza’s reconstruction, supporting Egypt’s $53 billion plan while rejecting any proposals that suggest Palestinian displacement. Leaders sought to counter U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial idea of relocating Palestinians to facilitate the establishment of a US-led project in Gaza.
Notably, the summit witnessed the participation of Syrian Interim President Ahmad Al Shara and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, marking their first appearances in the Arab League as representatives of their nations. Their priorities represent a shift from their Tehran-aligned predecessors, indicating evolving dynamics within the Middle East.
Both Syria and Lebanon aim to strengthen their relations with other Arab nations while also signaling a broader departure from Iranian influence. The two leaders recently chose Saudi Arabia as the destination for their initial foreign visits after taking office, underlining their intent to develop closer ties with Arab countries.
Syria’s previous suspension from the Arab League due to President Bashar Al Assad’s crackdown on protests and subsequent civil war has been reversed, with its readmission occurring in 2023. Ahmad Al Shara’s leadership comes following Al Assad’s ousting, and amidst the establishment of a transitional government that has rekindled international engagement.
With stability in Syria and its relations with its neighbors, particularly concerning Hezbollah in Lebanon, becoming a priority, Iran’s influence is perceived to be weakened. As the geopolitical landscape shifts, Hezbollah is now at its weakest due to former conflicts, compelling Iran to reassess its involvement in the region.
With new leadership in Lebanon, the country is now focusing on strengthening ties with the United States and fellow Arab states, diminishing the influence of Iran. Mr. Al Shara has already implemented measures to address smuggling at the Syria-Lebanon border, emphasizing a non-involvement policy.
The discussions at the summit highlighted significant developments in Arab collaboration, as indicated by Neil Quilliam of Chatham House. The necessity for Arab states to enhance their roles in regional stability has become clearer amidst changing power dynamics, particularly with Iran in retreat.
Mr. Aoun underscored Lebanon’s resilience and the necessity for solidarity among Arab nations, emphasizing that occupation threatens regional unity and security. Amid ongoing regional tensions, both leaders called on the international community to pressure Israel in its military positioning in southern territories, striving for greater diplomatic solutions rather than military responses.
Experts suggest that the fluctuations in U.S. policy and diminishing Iranian clout present Arab states with a unique opportunity to mold the regional security architecture, necessitating collective action to ensure stability and address shared challenges effectively.
The Arab League summit underscores a significant shift in the political landscape of the Middle East. With new leadership in Syria and Lebanon, both nations are pursuing stronger ties with other Arab states while moving away from Iranian influence. The discussions reflect a unified stance towards issues such as Gaza’s reconstruction and regional stability, showcasing the collaborative efforts of Arab nations amid evolving geopolitical dynamics. This summit marks a pivotal step towards redefining regional partnerships and security strategies in the Arab world.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
