For the first time in over a decade, Iraq is hosting the Arab League summit, marking its return to the center stage of Arab diplomacy amid escalating regional tensions. The gathering, held on Saturday, brings together leaders and representatives from the 27-member bloc to address pressing issues, including the war in Gaza, conflicts in Sudan and Libya, and political developments in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen.

The summit is expected to emphasize unity among Arab states in confronting shared challenges. "The summit will act on unifying Arab ranks and efforts in the face of challenges to the Arab world," said Hussein Allawi, an advisor to Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani.

Notable attendees include:

Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez (as a guest)

However, several key leaders are absent, with most Gulf countries sending ministerial-level representatives. Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose invitation sparked controversy, opted not to attend, dispatching Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani instead.

Sharaa’s invitation drew backlash in Iraq, particularly in the Shiite-majority south. Protesters in Basra rallied against his participation, chanting, "No, no to Jolani. No, no to terrorism," referencing his former nom de guerre. Sharaa, a former leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), was elected interim president in January after a coalition of opposition groups toppled Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

While many Arab states recognized Sharaa’s government, Iraq has withheld formal recognition due to his group’s historic ties to al-Qaeda and ISIS.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein stressed the urgency of Arab unity during preparatory talks, stating, "This meeting comes at a crucial juncture in the history of the Arab world, requiring unified efforts. The rapidly evolving political and security landscape in the region compels us to work together."

The last Arab League summit held in Baghdad was in 2012. This year’s event signals Iraq’s reintegration into regional diplomacy after years of isolation due to war and internal instability.

As discussions unfold, the summit’s outcomes will be closely watched, particularly regarding Gaza and Syria, where Arab states remain deeply divided.