Why it matters:
The gathering reflects a growing sense of Arab solidarity amid ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza and the wider regional confrontation following the Al-Aqsa Flood Operation. Organizers say the congress aims to revive the Arab nationalist vision rooted in unity, sovereignty, and resistance to foreign domination.
The big picture:
The three-day event runs until November 9, featuring intellectual and political discussions on regional crises, independence, and development.
The opening session focused on Gaza, Palestine, and the global response to the Israeli war, with participants stressing that “the Arab nation cannot remain silent in the face of genocide and occupation.
One full day will be dedicated to examining the future of the Arab-Zionist conflict in light of recent developments in Palestine, the Arab world, and the broader Islamic sphere.
What they’re saying:
Dr. Ma’n Bashour, who chaired the session and previously served as deputy secretary-general of the Arab National Congress (ANC), opened the conference by calling for a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs of Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, Iraq, and Iran.
He paid special tribute to “the martyrs of the Lebanese resistance under His Eminence Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and Sayyed Hashem Safieddine,” as well as to Palestinian leaders Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar.
Bashour said:
“For more than 35 years, this Congress has withstood smear campaigns and political pressure because it relies solely on the dedication of its members who gather at their own expense, united by their commitment to the progress of the Arab Umma. The spirit of resistance, renewal, and unity remains the foundation of our collective path.”
Key points:
- The congress will also discuss organizational matters, including reviewing last year’s initiatives and electing a new secretary-general and secretariat, in line with its triennial electoral charter.
- A special session titled “The Renaissance of the Nation” will explore the future of Arab revival through unity, democracy, independent development, and social justice.
- The closing statement, to be issued at the end of the conference, will outline the next phase of Arab action in response to Zionist and imperialist challenges.
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Go deeper:
The Arab National Congress, founded more than three decades ago, is one of the oldest platforms for coordination among Arab intellectuals and political movements committed to the ideals of resistance, self-determination, and liberation of Palestine.
The 34th session takes place amid what participants call a defining moment for the region — one that demands a renewed commitment to “the project of Arab renaissance and unity.”
Mojtaba Darabi - seyed mohammad kazemi