Al-Sisi’s diplomatic gamble: Can Egypt unite the Arab world on Gaza?

The Arab Summit, initially scheduled for February 27 in Cairo, is set to be postponed by approximately a week due to technical and logistical reasons, according to Palestinian sources cited by Haaretz. 

As a result, the summit will now take place during the holy month of Ramadan.

Egypt is continuing its intensive preparations to ensure that the summit presents a unified Arab stance against Donald Trump’s controversial plan for Gaza, reinforcing Cairo’s central role in regional diplomacy.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is playing a pivotal role in shaping the Arab world’s response to growing regional challenges, particularly concerning the future of Gaza. 

Under his leadership, Cairo is spearheading efforts to solidify a coordinated Arab position, ensuring that Palestinian interests remain at the forefront of regional diplomacy.

Al-Sisi has emerged as one of the strongest voices against unilateral decisions affecting Gaza’s future, particularly those pushed by Washington. 

His administration is actively engaging with Arab leaders to prevent any forced displacement of Palestinians into Egyptian territory and to oppose any external efforts to reshape Gaza’s governance without regional consensus.

Beyond the Gaza issue, the summit is expected to include direct and indirect discussions among Arab leaders on the establishment of an economic safety net for Egypt and Jordan. 

This comes in response to threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to cut American financial aid to these two countries, which serve as key regional allies and play critical roles in maintaining stability and security in the Middle East.

For Egypt, ensuring continued economic and military support remains a strategic priority, and Al-Sisi is likely to leverage his diplomatic influence to secure alternative financial and political backing from Arab nations.

Cairo’s Determined Stance Amid Geopolitical Shifts

As the host nation, Egypt’s role in shaping the summit’s outcomes cannot be understated. Al-Sisi’s leadership has positioned Cairo as a central mediator between various Arab factions, as well as a key negotiator with international actors.

By ensuring that the summit delivers a strong and unified Arab position, Al-Sisi aims to reaffirm Egypt’s regional leadership, counter U.S. pressures, and reinforce Arab sovereignty in managing Palestinian affairs.

With growing uncertainty surrounding Gaza’s political and security future, Al-Sisi’s ability to navigate complex regional alliances will be crucial in determining the Arab world’s collective strategy moving forward.