Algeria and Tunisia have withdrawn from an Arab summit in Cairo focused on Gaza reconstruction, citing concerns over imposed solutions favoring a few influential states. Both countries expressed frustrations regarding their sidelining from critical discussions on Palestinian rights and governance. Their absence highlights ongoing tensions within the Arab League regarding support for Palestine amid external influences from the U.S. and Israel’s strategies in the region.
Algeria and Tunisia have opted out of attending a prominent Arab summit in Cairo, primarily dedicated to discussing a reconstruction plan for Gaza following recent conflicts. Both nations express concern over proposals perceived as being imposed by a limited number of influential countries, undermining broader Palestinian interests. The summit, which aims to unite support for Palestinians amid ongoing tensions influenced by Washington and Tel Aviv, raises questions about the inclusivity of its decision-making process.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, a staunch advocate for Palestinian rights, decided to send his foreign minister in his stead, indicating his dissatisfaction with what he termed an exclusionary process led by significant Arab powers. An anonymous Algerian official revealed that the president’s absence signals a protest against efforts to minimize Algeria’s role, particularly given its involvement in the United Nations ceasefire resolutions. Tunisia’s President Kais Saied also followed suit, dispatching his foreign minister, thereby subtly aligning with Algeria’s stance on the issue.
The absence of these leaders is particularly relevant as the Arab League grapples with maintaining unity regarding the Palestinian cause. While Saudi Arabia has recently distanced itself from U.S.-backed normalization efforts with Israel, it remains a key player in Washington’s regional strategies. Egypt, taking a leading role in ceasefire negotiations, has proposed a reconstruction framework for Gaza involving an interim governing body.
Reportedly, Egypt’s proposal suggests replacing Hamas governance with an interim administration made up of representatives from Arab, Muslim-majority, and Western states. This Governance Assistance Mission would oversee aid and reconstruction for Gaza over an undefined period. Amid these discussions, Israel has re-imposed a blockade on Gaza, which critics have labeled as “collective punishment.” The Arab League is set to deliberate on this plan at the summit, which could profoundly impact the future of Gaza.
Both Algeria and Tunisia’s decisions to abstain from the Arab summit reflect a significant stance against what they perceive as an exclusionary approach to Palestinian affairs orchestrated by a select group of Arab nations. Their absence underscores concerns regarding the framing of regional solutions for Gaza, especially amidst ongoing geopolitical dynamics involving the United States and its allies. As the Arab League convenes, the outcome of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the future governance and humanitarian support for Gaza after the recent hostilities.
Original Source: news.az
