The Arab League summit in Cairo resulted in a unified approach to Gaza’s reconstruction, led by Syrian interim President Ahmad Al Shara and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun. Their participation emphasizes a regional shift toward stronger Arab cooperation, a response to diminishing Iranian influence, and a focus on enhancing relations with Arab nations, especially Saudi Arabia. The leaders’ vows to control borders and support Palestinian rights signify a strategic move in Middle Eastern politics.
The recent Arab League summit in Cairo culminated with a consensus on Gaza’s reconstruction, endorsing Egypt’s $53 billion plan while rejecting proposals that involve Palestinian displacement. Leaders united to oppose U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion of displacing Palestinians for reconstruction, signaling solidarity among Arab nations. Notably, Syrian interim President Ahmad Al Shara and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun attended the summit, marking a notable shift in leadership perspectives in the Middle East.
Both leaders from Syria and Lebanon aim to cultivate stronger relations with Arab countries, with their first international visits directed towards Saudi Arabia. This summit marked a significant event as Syria was readmitted to the Arab League in 2023 after being suspended due to the civil strife ignited by Bashar Al Assad’s crackdown on protests in 2011. Following Assad’s ousting by rebel forces, a transitional government has taken shape in Damascus, leading to renewed regional interaction.
With Iran’s influence weakened by the changes in Syria, both Lebanon and Syria are re-aligning their foreign policies away from Tehran. The newly appointed leaders of Lebanon are focusing on improving ties with the U.S. and Arab nations while seeking to mitigate Iran’s grasp. Meanwhile, Mr Al Shara has initiated measures to control border smuggling and has reiterated non-interference in Lebanese affairs.
The participation of Mr Aoun and Mr Al Shara at the summit symbolizes a significant regional transformation. As Neil Quilliam from Chatham House highlighted, the diminishing power of Iran compels Arab nations to adopt a more active stance in regional security. Their meeting emphasized the urgency for cooperation, especially concerning border control and addressing mutual security concerns.
At the summit, Mr Aoun articulated Lebanon’s resolve to avoid being a pawn in external conflicts, insisting on Arab strength for Palestinian solidarity. He acknowledged the regional suffering amid external aggression, urging collective support for Palestine. Escalating tensions have emerged following Hezbollah’s military actions and Israel’s retaliations, further complicating Lebanon’s security landscape.
In response to continued Israeli military presence in southern Syria, both leaders called for international action to uphold Syria’s territorial integrity. Mr Al Shara demanded that the international community exert pressure on Israel to withdraw from southern Syria. This diplomatic stance underscores a regionally assertive approach as Syria prioritizes non-aggression.
Experts suggest that the changes stemming from collapsed Iranian influence represent an opportunity for Arab nations to reassess their roles and collaboratively shape a sustainable regional security order without relying solely on U.S. guidance.
The recent Arab League summit marks a pivotal moment for regional dynamics with the participation of new leaders from Syria and Lebanon, indicating a shift toward increased Arab cooperation. The focus on reconstructing Gaza and addressing regional security concerns reflects a unified stance against external pressures, particularly from Iran and Israel. As Syria’s new leadership establishes a non-aggressive diplomatic approach, both Lebanon and Syria aim to strengthen ties within the Arab community, highlighting a potential new era in Middle Eastern politics.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
