A delegation from Islamic and Arab nations has embarked on a tour of the five permanent United Nations Security Council member states with the goal of achieving a ceasefire in the war on Gaza, increasing humanitarian aid to the region, and garnering support for the Palestinians’ pursuit of an independent state. The delegation, formed at a summit of the Arab League and Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Riyadh, includes representatives from Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Nigeria, the Palestinian Authority, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the secretary-general of the OIC.
The trip began in China, where the delegation met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi before proceeding to meetings in Moscow and London. The choice to begin the tour in China raised speculation about the delegation’s intentions and message to Western powers. Some experts questioned the delegation’s true agenda, while others saw the diplomatic efforts as a strategy to involve a maximum number of actors and create the impression of activity without achieving tangible results.
Despite the uncertainties, a humanitarian pause was announced shortly after the delegation started its visit, with an agreement that would see the release of captives in exchange for a cessation of hostilities. The delegation pushed for a more lasting ceasefire and continued their meetings with foreign ministers and heads of state.
Experts have different views on the purpose and possible outcomes of the delegation’s tour. While some see the efforts as performative and lacking in direct leverage, others believe that shaping the global narrative and influencing the stances of key global players are important dimensions of the delegation’s efforts.
The visit to China is seen as an attempt by Islamic and Arab states to gather global support and send a message to nations that have backed Israel. The diplomatic efforts have raised questions about the United States’ role in the region and its policy of promoting normalization agreements between Israel and Arab countries. Despite frustrations with US support for Israel, Arab leaders understand that the power to stop the conflict lies with the US and continue to engage in efforts to galvanize global support and increase pressure on the Israeli government.