Arab League Announces $40 Million Fund for Gaza, Lebanon Reconstruction

At the 34th Arab League Summit in Baghdad, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced the launch of 18 initiatives to strengthen Arab cooperation, including the creation of an Arab fund dedicated to post-conflict recovery, with Iraq pledging $40 million towards reconstruction efforts in Gaza and Lebanon. Arab League Assistant Secretary-General Hossam Zaki confirmed member states' consensus on the fund, highlighting Iraq's initial financial contribution and the summit's endorsement of the initiative. The summit emphasized the urgency of coordinated Arab and international financial support for rebuilding Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and other conflict-affected countries, with Egypt leading efforts to mobilize funds for Gaza's recovery. Al-Sudani condemned ongoing violence in Gaza and Israeli violations of Lebanese sovereignty, reaffirming support for Palestinian rights and Syria’s territorial integrity. Despite some absences of key leaders, officials stressed the legitimacy of the summit's decisions and the importance of diplomatic engagement to resolve regional disputes, including the UAE-Sudan rift. Additionally, preparations are underway for a conference co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France to advance recognition of a Palestinian state and the two-state solution.