Baghdad summit calls for political transition to protect Syria’s diversity and peace

The final statement of the Baghdad Summit stressed support for Syria’s territorial unity and rejection of foreign interference. It welcomed the U.S. President’s decision to lift sanctions on Syria. 

Baghdad summit calls for political transition to protect Syria’s diversity and peace
17 May, 2025   21:23
NEWS DESK

The 34th Arab Summit convened in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, under the slogan "Dialogue, Solidarity, and Development," amid pressing Arab issues and regional crises involving Palestine, Syria, Sudan, Libya, and Yemen. These developments come against the backdrop of significant regional changes, most notably the ongoing Israeli war on the Gaza Strip, which has lasted more than a year and a half.

In its final communiqué, the summit placed strong focus on Syria, affirming respect for the choices of the Syrian people in all their components and sects. It supported Syria's security and stability, which were described as crucial to the broader security and stability of the region. The statement emphasized support for Syria’s territorial integrity and rejection of all forms of foreign interference in Syrian internal affairs, while condemning continued Israeli attacks on Syrian territory.

The statement stressed the importance of moving forward with a comprehensive political transition process that preserves Syria's diversity and social peace. It also highlighted the need to respect the beliefs and sacred sites of all groups and components of the Syrian people, and to work toward rebuilding the Syrian state. In this context, the summit welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement lifting sanctions on Syria, while once again condemning ongoing Israeli assaults on Syrian land.

Regarding the Palestinian issue, the statement called on the international community to pressure Israel to stop its war against Hamas and to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

On Lebanon, the statement expressed full support for the country in facing its challenges, preserving its security and stability, supporting its territorial integrity, and protecting its borders from any aggression.

Concerning Yemen, the summit expressed full solidarity and support for efforts to achieve security and stability, emphasizing the importance of reaching a comprehensive political solution to end the state of war and division.

As for Sudan, the statement urged all parties to engage with initiatives aimed at resolving the crisis—particularly the Jeddah Declaration—while stressing the importance of preserving Sudan’s sovereignty and territorial unity.

Regarding Libya, the statement reiterated full support for resolving the crisis through national dialogue that preserves the unity of the state. It rejected all forms of foreign interference and emphasized the need for all foreign forces and mercenaries to withdraw from Libyan territory.

This Arab Summit comes amid a turbulent regional climate and persistent challenges facing the region, where participating countries sought to emphasize solidarity and joint action to achieve security, stability, and development in the Arab world.

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ANHA