Arab Leaders Agree to Form Joint Military Force

On March 27, 2015, during the Arab League summit held in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, Arab leaders reached a significant agreement to establish a joint military force. This decision was primarily driven by the need to address escalating regional conflicts and perceived threats, particularly from non-state actors and regional instability.

Context and Background

The early 2010s were marked by significant upheaval in the Arab world, often referred to as the Arab Spring. This period saw widespread protests, civil wars, and the rise of extremist groups, notably the Islamic State (ISIS). The instability in countries like Syria, Iraq, Libya, and Yemen posed significant security challenges to the region.

Key Factors Leading to the Decision:

1. Yemen Crisis: The immediate catalyst for the decision was the situation in Yemen, where Houthi rebels, allegedly backed by Iran, had taken control of large parts of the country, including the capital, Sana’a. This was seen as a direct threat to the stability of the Arabian Peninsula and the interests of Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia.

2. Rise of Extremism: The proliferation of extremist groups across the region, including ISIS and Al-Qaeda affiliates, necessitated a coordinated military response to prevent further territorial gains and destabilization.

3. Regional Power Dynamics: The growing influence of Iran in regional conflicts, through its support for proxy groups, was a significant concern for Sunni-majority countries, prompting a need for a unified military strategy.

The Summit and Agreement

The 26th Arab League Summit, hosted by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, brought together leaders from 22 member states. The proposal for a joint military force was spearheaded by Egypt, with strong backing from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Key Points of the Agreement:

• Purpose: The joint force was intended to respond to security threats, including terrorism and insurgency, and to protect the sovereignty of member states.
• Structure: The force was envisioned to consist of approximately 40,000 troops, with contributions from various member states, and would be equipped with fighter jets, warships, and light armor.
• Command: A unified command structure was proposed to ensure coordinated operations and strategic planning.

Aftermath and Significance

The agreement marked a historic step towards military cooperation among Arab states, reflecting a shift towards collective security measures in the face of common threats. However, the implementation faced challenges:

• Divergent Interests: Differences in political priorities and military capabilities among member states posed hurdles to the force’s operationalization.
• Logistical and Financial Constraints: Establishing a fully functional joint military force required significant logistical coordination and financial investment.

Despite these challenges, the agreement underscored a growing recognition of the need for regional solutions to regional problems, setting a precedent for future cooperation among Arab states.

Broader Historical Significance

The decision to form a joint military force highlighted the evolving dynamics of Middle Eastern geopolitics, where traditional alliances and power structures were being re-evaluated in response to new security challenges. It also illustrated the increasing willingness of Arab states to take collective action in safeguarding regional stability and countering external influences.

In summary, the 2015 Arab League summit in Sharm El-Sheikh was a pivotal moment in the pursuit of regional security cooperation, reflecting both the challenges and aspirations of the Arab world in the 21st century.