Iraq is scheduled to host an Arab summit on May 17, focusing on conditions for success amid ongoing humanitarian crises, particularly related to Gaza, where recent urgent discussions highlighted the need for ceasefire and reconstruction efforts.
Iraq is set to host the forthcoming Arab summit on May 17, as announced by Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein on Thursday. He chaired a preparatory meeting in Baghdad to discuss the necessary arrangements for the event. The date was established following discussions with representatives from the Arab League in Cairo. Minister Hussein emphasized, “Iraq is working to create proper conditions to ensure the success of the summit.”
The significance of the summit is underscored by the urgency of discussions surrounding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Recently, Egypt convened an emergency Arab summit that called for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange agreement, aiming to bring about a permanent resolution to the Israeli conflict and facilitate a complete withdrawal from the region.
Moreover, that summit approved a substantial five-year development plan featuring $53 billion for rebuilding Gaza, with a focus on ensuring that current residents are not displaced. The toll of violence has been profound, with over 48,400 Palestinian fatalities, predominantly among women and children, and more than 111,000 sustaining injuries since the onset of the Israeli conflict in October 2023.
The current ceasefire, effective since January 19, temporarily halted hostilities that have decimated the Gaza enclave. Compounding these issues, the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, concerning allegations of war crimes in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice related to the ongoing conflict.
In summary, Iraq will host the Arab summit on May 17, with preparations underway to ensure its success. This summit is timely given the current crisis in Gaza, highlighted by recent calls for a ceasefire and plans for substantial reconstruction. The ongoing humanitarian impact of the conflict raises important considerations for regional diplomacy and international law.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
