Arab Leaders Convene in Baghdad Amid Gaza Crisis

The Arab League summit commenced in Baghdad on Saturday, May 17, 2025, amidst escalating tensions in Gaza. The summit's primary focus was the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with leaders calling for an end to the violence. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Vice President of the UAE, was greeted by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and Sheikh Tamim, the Emir of Qatar, also attended. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas was notably the first Arab leader to arrive in Baghdad, followed by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez joined the summit; Sanchez openly criticized Israel's actions in Gaza. The summit follows President Donald Trump's recent visit to the region, where he predicted positive developments for Gaza. The event underscores the international community's deep concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.