DUBAI, UAE - Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday to attend the Second Joint Arab-Islamic Summit. The summit aims to address regional escalations amid Israel’s war on Gaza and Lebanon, as well as other pressing regional issues.

Government spokesperson Basim al-Awadi emphasized that Iraq is focused on rallying Arab support for the Palestinian cause and halting the Israeli aggression against Gaza and Lebanon during the emergency summit.

“This summit provides a vital platform to support the Palestinian and Lebanese peoples in their struggles,” read a statement from Awadi.

Awadi also highlighted the strategic importance of the summit for Iraq's regional role. “Prime Minister Al-Sudani has emphasized the importance of this summit in enhancing Arab cooperation and addressing the challenges we face together.”

Iraq views the Riyadh summit as an opportunity to strengthen its relations with Arab nations and solidify its position as a leader in the Arab world, particularly in addressing foreign challenges, according to the spokesperson, adding that Baghdad sees the summit as a chance to demonstrate Iraq's ability to be a driving force in Arab cooperation and stability.

“Iraq is committed to supporting Arab causes, and our participation in the summit reflects our desire to shape a new image for the Arab world - one based on security, dialogue, and cooperation,” Awadi explained.

“Iraq is now able to occupy its historical position as a leader of Arab countries, playing a central role in confronting foreign challenges,” he added.