Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s interim president, has decided not to attend the upcoming Arab League Summit in Baghdad on May 17, as reported by Syrian state media. Instead, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani will represent Syria at the event. This decision was announced through Syria’s state-run Ekhbariya television channel on May 12, shedding light on the deep-seated tensions in the region.The absence of al-Sharaa at the summit stems from objections by Iraqi Shiite politicians and protesters. They have expressed concerns over his past affiliations with Sunni extremist groups that gained prominence in Iraq following the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. Al-Sharaa also leads Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group designated as a terrorist organization internationally and previously linked to al-Qaeda. This history has fueled opposition to his presence at the Baghdad summit, highlighting the ongoing Sunni-Shiite divide that continues to shape political dynamics in the Middle East.This development underscores broader regional challenges as countries navigate historical sectarian divides while attempting to foster dialogue through platforms like the Arab League. The summit in Baghdad is seen as a critical opportunity for Arab nations to address shared concerns, but al-Sharaa’s absence points to the persistent barriers posed by past conflicts and ideological differences. Reports indicate that Iraqi authorities have been working to ensure the event proceeds smoothly despite these tensions, with a focus on maintaining diplomatic engagement among member states. The decision for al-Shibani to lead the delegation reflects Syria’s intent to remain part of the conversation, even if its top leader cannot attend due to the controversy surrounding his background.