Middle East Summit: Arab Diplomats Discuss Gaza War and Post-Conflict Plans

Saudi Arabia is hosting a summit today, Thursday, with foreign ministers from five Middle Eastern countries. Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister is welcoming top diplomats from Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, who will be in attendance. Qatar, despite its inclination toward Islamist governments, was invited due to its influence over Hamas, allowing Hamas leaders to reside in the country.

The goal of this conference is to solidify a united Arab stance on the war in Gaza and establish an initiative and plan for post-war efforts. The ministers aim to discuss strategies to increase pressure for a ceasefire and debate the extent of their respective countries’ involvement in the rehabilitation of the Gaza Strip. While the Arab ministers agree that Hamas should not be part of the political leadership of Gaza after the war, they acknowledge the likelihood of the terror organization’s continued existence and the necessity to engage with them.

This summit exemplifies the formation of alliances among Israel’s neighboring countries. Despite differences with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s goal of extending the war until Hamas is obliterated, a partnership with a coalition of Arab countries led by Saudi Arabia could be beneficial in countering Iran in the future. Two Arab diplomats also mentioned considering new relations with Israel, contingent on Israel taking steps toward creating a Palestinian state.