The recent Arab League summit in Cairo focused on the reconstruction of Gaza, backed by Egypt’s $53 billion plan, while Arabian leaders, including Syria and Lebanon’s new presidents, aimed to re-establish regional ties. With Iran’s influence waning, a new cooperative dynamic among Arab nations emerged, fostering discussions on border control and mutual support in addressing challenges.
The Arab League summit held in Cairo concluded with a unified commitment towards the reconstruction of Gaza, endorsing Egypt’s proposed $53 billion plan and firmly rejecting any proposals suggesting Palestinian displacement. Notably, the summit featured the participation of Syrian interim President Ahmad Al Shara and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, marking significant leadership changes in the region that reflect a broader shift away from Tehran-aligned politics.
As the emergency summit commenced, Bahrain’s King Hamad extended a warm welcome to the newly appointed Syrian and Lebanese presidents. Both leaders aimed to establish stronger ties with fellow Arab nations, with Saudi Arabia being their first foreign destination. Following years of isolation due to the Syrian civil conflict, Syria has made a notable return to the Arab League, a shift celebrated by Mr. Al Shara who stated, “Syria is now in its rightful place – among its brotherly nations and within the Arab fold.”
The dynamics of the region have evolved considerably post-Bashar Al Assad’s administration, which faced a crucial downfall. Mr. Al Assad has reportedly sought refuge in Moscow while a transitional government, led by Mr. Al Shara, aims to stabilize relations with Arab countries. This transition is crucial as it disrupts Iran’s influence, which previously leveraged Syria as a corridor for Hezbollah, thus impacting Iran’s strategic objectives against Israel.
The transformations in both Syria and Lebanon are evidenced by Hezbollah’s weakened status following its recent confrontations with Israel. The emergence of new leadership in Lebanon has facilitated the election of a president and prime minister focused on fostering relations with the United States and neighboring Arab states, rather than adhering to Iranian directives. Mr. Al Shara has prioritized addressing border issues with Lebanon and avoiding interference in its affairs.
Neil Quilliam, an expert from Chatham House, highlighted the significance of Mr. Al Shara and Mr. Aoun’s attendance, stating that it underscores the regional changes as Arab states increasingly recognize the necessity for a proactive role in regional security and development. Their in-person conversations addressed vital border concerns between the two nations, emphasizing cooperation in an area long plagued by smuggling.
During the summit, Mr. Aoun emphasized Lebanon’s lessons from past struggles, stressing the importance of regional strength for the sake of Palestine, stating, “We, as Arabs, must all be strong for Palestine to be strong.” Additionally, he addressed the ongoing situation regarding Israeli actions in regions occupied both in Lebanon and Palestine.
Hezbollah’s recent military engagements against Israel heightened the tensions in the region, prompting Israel to maintain a military presence in southern Lebanon. Mr. Aoun asserted the Lebanese demand for sovereignty and the resolution of prisoner issues, while Mr. Al Shara called for international accountability regarding Israel’s military presence in southern Syria.
The new Syrian leadership has gravitated towards regional non-aggression policies, opting to seek diplomatic means rather than military confrontation in dealing with Israel. Experts suggest that current geopolitical tensions present Arab countries with a vital opportunity to redefine the security order in the region by cooperating against common threats and interests.
The Arab League summit reflects significant shifts in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, highlighting the emerging leadership in Syria and Lebanon who seek to foster collaboration with Arab states against regional threats. With a shared commitment to Palestinian rights and a strategic pivot away from Iranian influence, both nations are poised to engage positively in Arab affairs. This evolving dynamic is crucial as leader interactions become central to addressing mutual interests and stabilizing the region.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
