Saudi newspapers today commented on developments in Iraq following the collapse of Saddam Hussein’s regime.
Dammam-based Al-Yaum said that the Kingdom’s call for a regional conference in Riyadh to review the future of Iraq reflects the concern of the Kingdom to alleviate the suffering of the Iraqi people. “The Kingdom is fully aware that the future of Iraq should be determined by the Iraqis themselves. The initiative of convening a regional conference is aimed at enabling the Iraqis to live in peace,” the paper said.
The Makkah-based Al-Nadwa expressed the expectation that U.S. President George Bush will announce the end of war in Iraq and the beginning of the stage of reconstruction of the country. The paper stressed the importance of containing looting and civil instability in Iraq, in order to pave the way for the Iraqis to rebuild their country.
The Abha-based Al-Watan said that U.S. accusations against Syria, indicate that its next target will be Damascus. “By issuing these veiled threats, America aims to change Syria’s stance regarding developments in the region, notably the situation in Iraq and occupied Palestinian territories,” it said.
Al-Jazeera said that Israel is keen to foment differences between Syria and the U.S. “The decision-makers in Washington, who have fallen under the influence of the Jewish lobby, will plan to attack Syria under the pretext of accusations such as harbouring Iraqi officials or acquiring chemical weapons. Israel is, undoubtedly, keen to weaken all influential Arab powers, so that it can impose its will on the region,” the paper said.
Jeddah-based Okaz said that the Kingdom’s call for the convention of a regional conference to review the future of Iraq is the first serious diplomatic initiative to formulate an Arab vision that tackles the repercussions of the war against Iraq. “The Saudi leadership is keen to assist the Iraqi people, and enable them to overcome their ordeal and preserve their unity and sovereignty,” it noted. “It is hoped that the conference will yield positive results.”
Source: SPA
