Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa Skips Crucial Arab League Summit Amid Tensions

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa will not attend the upcoming Arab League summit in Iraq, a decision confirmed by his office on Tuesday. The country's delegation will be represented by the foreign minister instead.

Tensions arose following Iraq's invitation last month, revealing political divides in the decision-making process. The summit is slated for Saturday in Baghdad.

Al-Sharaa, who ascended to power after ousting Bashar Assad, faces challenges in convincing regional actors of his diplomatic intentions, as well as striving to ease sanctions on Syria. His prior affiliations with al-Qaida contribute to the complex dynamic, particularly with Shiite groups in Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies.)