Arab ministers in Saudi Arabia discuss Syria, ISIS crises
The meeting came as U.S. media reported that Washington could consider action against ISIS in Syria
Arab foreign ministers held a meeting in Saudi Arabia on Sunday to discuss the Syrian conflict and the rise of "extremism" in the region, the official SPA news agency reported.
The meeting came as U.S. media reported that Washington, which has launched air raids in northern Iraq against Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, could consider similar action against ISIS militants in Syria.
The closed-door talks in the Red Sea city of Jeddah was attended by the foreign ministers of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, as well as an advisor to Jordan's foreign minister, said SPA.
They discussed the Syrian conflict and "challenges including the rise of terrorist extremist ideology.”
The ministers agreed on "the need to seriously work to deal with these crises and challenges to preserve security and stability in Arab countries," it said, without giving details.
Egypt's foreign ministry said Saturday that the meeting would address "the growing presence in Iraq and Syria of extremists," notably ISIS.
The rise of ISIS meant the "search for a political solution to the Syria crisis was needed more than ever," it said.
Since declaring a "caliphate" in June, ISIS has conducted a lightning offensive, taking control of territory straddling Iraq and Syria.
The militant groups sparked worldwide horror this week when it released a video showing its beheading of U.S. journalist James Foley.
-
ISIS militants capture major Syrian air base in northeast
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says the militants broke through the Tabqa air field’s defenses and routed the government forces Middle East -
Qatar hits back at claims it backs extremists
Qatari Foreign Minister Khalid bin Mohammed al-Attiyah said Qatar does not support extremists including ISIS Middle East -
Is it time for air strikes on ISIS in Syria?
How can Washington work with Damascus after all of the acrimonious language and threats? The answer is simple Middle East -
Obama summoned to battle by a decision made by ISIS
On Syria, Barack Obama is in denial mode. He refuses to be blamed Middle East -
ISIS finally removed Maliki – but who will remove Assad?
It is hard for many in the Middle East to differentiate today who did more harm in the region Middle East -
Vatican: Lack of prospects, financial lure pushing youth to ISIS
They have struck fear into neighbors and countries further afield as they massacre Christians and opponents Middle East