Beirut: Jaafari Grand Mufti Sheikh Ahmad Qabalan has called on Arab and Islamic nations to engage in a comprehensive regional settlement to alleviate divisions and tensions among them, aiming to prevent further conflicts in the region.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, Qabalan emphasized the importance of cooperation among Saudi Arabia, Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, Iraq, Egypt, Yemen, and Lebanon, urging these nations to collaborate based on their common religious and regional interests. He particularly highlighted the need for enhanced coordination between Riyadh and Tehran.

Qabalan pointed out that the region is currently navigating a critical period, where ongoing divisions contribute to conflict, arms proliferation, and instability. He advocated for the establishment of new channels of Arab-Islamic cooperation, the expansion of economic and political partnerships, and a reduction in external influence over regional decision-making processes.

Additionally, Qabalan called for efforts to bolster trade and regional cooperation, especially between Saudi Arabia and Yemen, noting that Lebanon stands to gain from any significant regional settlement that helps to ease tensions.

He also urged Gulf states to acknowledge what he described as a shifting regional balance, advocating for a novel approach centered on regional dialogue, cooperation, and shared interests. Qabalan warned that continued confrontation could result in further instability and destruction across the Middle East.