According to experts, Iraq’s participation was not merely a ceremonial presence but a qualitative shift reflecting its independent political decision-making and the international community’s confidence in its stability and growing role in the region. Baghdad is returning to its natural position as the heart of the Arab world, striving for a balance of interests and building partnerships based on development and peace.
Political analyst Ayat Adham from the ‘Development Bloc’ told Sputnik, ‘The participation of the Iraqi Prime Minister marked an honorable diplomatic stance for Iraq on the international stage, especially his refusal to participate in the session attended by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.’ She added, ‘Sudani’s stance reflected Iraq’s national and Arab principles regarding the Palestinian cause, particularly since the summit was originally convened to discuss the peace declaration and support for the Palestinian cause,’ noting that ‘this position enhanced Iraq’s diplomatic standing in the region.’
She concluded, ‘The Arab peoples, and Iraqis in particular, feel proud of what was achieved today, considering it a victory for the resilience of the Palestinian will and Iraq’s firm and supportive stance on the Palestinian cause.’
On the other hand, strategic expert Athir Al-Shara believes that ‘Sudani’s participation in the signing ceremony of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and several Middle Eastern countries conveyed important messages to the international community, especially to the United States in the region.’ He added, ‘The Prime Minister’s engagement in such initiatives can contribute to enhancing international confidence in Iraq and increasing political and economic support for it,’ explaining that ‘Iraq is now viewed as a regional partner capable of bridging divergent viewpoints.’
Athir Al-Shara concluded by saying, ‘There are indicators that Sudani is seeking to solidify national decision-making independence, but he faces significant internal challenges, including controlling arms and strengthening state authority, which are necessary steps for broader international engagement.’
The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that ‘the participation of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and Minister Fouad Hussein in the Sharm El Sheikh Summit came upon an invitation from the United States and Egypt.’ Meanwhile, political researcher Shaima Al-Abidi emphasizes that ‘Sudani’s participation in the Sharm El Sheikh Peace Summit was not limited to the political aspect but represented a qualitative shift in Iraq’s international presence, from merely receiving solutions to being an active and initiative-taking partner in formulating them.’
According to Al-Abidi, ‘The summit enabled Sudani to hold significant bilateral meetings with several Arab and foreign leaders, contributing to opening new horizons, particularly in the fields of electrical interconnection and renewable energy,’ explaining that ‘these moves lay the foundation for partnerships based on mutual interests and respect.’
Al-Abidi concluded by saying, ‘Iraq’s participation in the Sharm El Sheikh Summit embodied the international community’s confidence in Iraq’s stability and its growing role in its regional environment,’ affirming that ‘Iraq now possesses an independent sovereign decision and has influence on both the regional and international levels.’
The summit witnessed the announcement of a comprehensive document representing a ceasefire agreement between Palestine, aiming to end military escalation and create an atmosphere conducive to resuming the peace process in the Middle East.
