Â
In a bold move to bolster regional security, Egypt has revived a proposal to establish a unified Arab defense force, drawing inspiration from the NATO alliance. Announced amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, this initiative aims to safeguard Arab nations facing external threats, marking a significant step toward collective defense in the region.
The proposal, which builds on a 2015 concept, gained renewed urgency following Israel's airstrike on Hamas targets in Qatar on September 9, 2025. This incident, which resulted in the deaths of five Hamas members and a Qatari security officer, has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for solidarity among Arab states. The idea was prominently discussed during the recent Arab-Islamic summit in Doha on September 15, 2025, where leaders sought to address the growing instability.
Under the plan, Egypt proposes deploying approximately 20,000 troops, with Cairo designated as the headquarters for the force. The command structure would rotate among the 22 members of the Arab League, starting with an Egyptian leader, to ensure equitable representation and regional balance. The force would comprise naval, air, and ground units, including elite commandos trained in counterterrorism and peacekeeping missions, as reported by *The National* (September 14, 2025).
However, the proposal is not without challenges. Past attempts to create a joint Arab military force have faltered due to sovereignty concerns and disputes over command authority. The involvement of Iran, which is advocating for a broader Islamic military alliance, adds another layer of complexity, as noted by *Newsweek* (September 15, 2025). Despite these hurdles, the Arab League's 1945 joint defense agreement provides a historical framework that could support the initiative.
The timing of this proposal coincides with shifting regional dynamics, with some Arab states increasingly viewing Israel as a primary threat to stability, according to *The Guardian* (September 12, 2025). The Doha summit highlighted the need for coordinated action, though no formal agreement has been reached yet. As discussions continue, the feasibility of this NATO-style force remains under scrutiny, with experts awaiting further details on troop contributions and operational mechanisms.
Stay tuned to our blog for updates as this story develops, and let us know your thoughts on this potential game-changer for Arab security in the comments below!