In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and shared purpose, leaders from across the Arab world gathered in Baghdad on Saturday for the annual Arab League Summit. What emerged was a united front committed to peace, compassion, and reconstruction, particularly in Gaza—a region that has long yearned for stability and renewal.
The summit was not just another diplomatic gathering. It was a moment of hope, resilience, and forward-thinking. It sent a clear and optimistic message to the world: that peace is not only possible but already in motion, led by nations determined to shape a better future for the Middle East.
A Unified Call for Peace in Gaza
The key focus of the summit was the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Leaders across the Arab world voiced their collective appeal for an immediate ceasefire and the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians. The shared sentiment was not rooted in division but in deep compassion and responsibility.
Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani opened the session with a heartfelt address. “This is not merely about conflict,” he said. “This is about the lives of innocent people, about families and children who deserve peace, dignity, and a future.” He underscored Iraq’s pledge to contribute $20 million to Gaza’s reconstruction and an additional $20 million to Lebanon as part of a broader Arab-led reconstruction fund.
Rebuilding with Dignity and Inclusion
A highlight of the summit was the reaffirmation of a landmark decision made earlier in March at an emergency Arab League meeting in Cairo: that Gaza’s reconstruction must be rooted in dignity. This includes a firm commitment that no Palestinian resident would be displaced during or after rebuilding efforts.
Arab nations emphasized that reconstruction must serve the people of Gaza, preserving their homes, heritage, and humanity. This collective promise reflects a growing awareness that long-term peace is only sustainable when rooted in justice and empathy.
A New Vision for the Region
Among the most prominent voices at the summit was Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, who underscored the central role of a two-state solution in achieving lasting peace. “Even if diplomatic relations are normalized between Israel and Arab states,” he said, “real peace will remain incomplete without the creation of a Palestinian state based on international consensus.”
President el-Sissi also highlighted Egypt’s active diplomatic efforts with Qatar and the United States to broker a ceasefire. Their recent success in facilitating the release of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander demonstrates that dialogue and diplomacy remain powerful tools in conflict resolution.
International Voices Join the Chorus for Peace
In a notable show of global support, the summit was attended by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres. Both international figures offered strong endorsements for peace initiatives and stressed the importance of maintaining humanitarian principles.
Guterres firmly rejected any form of forced displacement of Palestinians, calling it contrary to international law and human decency. “Peace is not built by removing people from their homes,” he said, “but by building trust, justice, and opportunity.”
Gaza: From Conflict to Renewal
The recent months have seen the breakdown of a previous ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, leading to renewed conflict and suffering. However, this summit turned the page by shifting focus from destruction to restoration.
Arab leaders expressed not only concern but also commitment. The emphasis was no longer just about ending war, but about what comes next: education, housing, infrastructure, and economic opportunity for the people of Gaza.
This positive shift represents a broader regional desire to invest in peace rather than perpetuate conflict. By pledging resources and unity, Arab nations have charted a new path forward—one that prioritizes people, hope, and rebuilding.
A Stronger, Inclusive Arab Voice
The unity on display in Baghdad went beyond Gaza. The final communiqué issued by the summit included strong language supporting the sovereignty of all Arab nations and rejecting foreign interference. This included a resounding call for the end of Israeli incursions into Syria and praise for recent efforts to ease sanctions on Syria—a move leaders said would accelerate the recovery and reconstruction of the war-torn country.
There was also acknowledgment of the need for intra-Arab cooperation to address broader challenges such as climate change, food security, and economic development. The Baghdad Summit wasn’t just about conflict—it was about envisioning a shared future.
Encouraging Dialogue and Reconciliation
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the summit with a call for unity among Palestinian factions. He urged Hamas and other militant groups to relinquish arms and hand control of Gaza back to the Palestinian Authority to foster reconciliation and democratic governance.
This plea was not one of weakness, but of strength—an open invitation to turn the page on past divisions and work together toward a peaceful and prosperous future for all Palestinians.
U.S. Visit and Shifting Diplomacy
Just days before the summit, U.S. President Donald Trump made a high-profile visit to the region. Though his trip did not lead to an immediate ceasefire, it opened new diplomatic channels. His meeting with Syria’s new President, Ahmad al-Sharaa, made headlines—especially with Trump pledging to lift U.S. sanctions on Syria.
While controversial in some quarters, this move was seen by summit participants as a potential step toward reintegrating Syria into the international community and unlocking development opportunities.
Syria’s Role and Regional Integration
Although Syria’s President did not attend the summit, his foreign minister, Asaad al-Shibani, was present. Arab leaders used the opportunity to reiterate their commitment to Syrian unity and independence.
They condemned Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory and emphasized that cooperation—not isolation—is key to the region’s long-term stability. The summit welcomed the easing of Western sanctions on Syria, which many believe will spur recovery and humanitarian development.
Hope on the Horizon: Diplomacy with Iran
In a quietly significant development, an unnamed Iraqi official confirmed that Esmail Ghaani, commander of Iran’s Quds Force, visited Baghdad ahead of the summit. Ghaani reportedly brought messages of encouragement for the Iran-U.S. nuclear negotiations, which, if successful, could lift longstanding sanctions and bring much-needed relief to the Iranian people.
This potential breakthrough in diplomacy signals a broader regional thaw and the possibility of greater economic cooperation and security partnerships in the Middle East.
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
The Baghdad Summit was not just a meeting of officials—it was a convergence of values, aspirations, and human spirit. The Arab world spoke with one voice, demanding peace and pledging to rebuild. This moment could be a turning point—not just for Gaza, but for the entire Middle East. From the ashes of conflict, a collective commitment to hope, humanity, and healing has emerged. With cooperation, compassion, and courage, the vision laid out in Baghdad could become a lasting reality.
