Arab coalition could help stabilise region

ABU DHABI // The new Arab military union is a starting point for building a wider, more stable force in the region, according to political experts.

But, as with any coalition fighting terrorism, it faces challenges to ensure the welfare of its citizens. Sectarianism is keeping extremism alive in the Middle East.

“The situation in the Arab world is a real hotspot now,” said Dr Salem Humaid, director general of Al Mezmaah Studies and Research Centre. “There are constant issues alongside developments, some of which are quite serious, so it is hard to put a finger on constants, because even the nature of constants in the Arab region keeps moving.”

Dr Paul Salem, vice president for policy and research at the Middle East Institute in the US, said the changes in some Arab countries were partly a result of unemployment, poor distribution of wealth, and pressure on agricultural and water resources.

Dr Salem said: “The collapse of many institutions opened the gate for regional intervention and conflicts. But the new Arab military force is a historic milestone because it is led by an Arab power, not an international or American power as in the past.”