Kuwait leads action against Assad

Yesterday I read on the Kuwait News Agency website that Kuwait plans to host a Donor's Meeting for those pledging financial support to Assad's opposition in Syria. According to Kuwait's state news agency France has praised HH the Emir of Kuwait for organising the conference which is designed to assist civilians caught up in the continued violence in Syria. As well as playing host, the Emir has also pledged to donate $20 million to the Syrian Opposition Coalition and the Free Syrian Army .

HH the Emir of Kuwait, Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah 

Any help to Syrian civilians during this dreadful violence should be commended, as should Kuwait's attempts to coordinate collective efforts of regional Middle East donors. Previously in this bog I have criticised the wealthy Gulf States for responding to the Syrian crisis with powerful rhetoric but a distinct lack of action. I have also criticised the coutrnies' of the Arabian Peninsula for showing little ability to work together.

Kuwait's forthcoming conference shows evidence of both affirmative action and Pan-Arab teamwork in assisting those caught up in the Assad's shameful actions. HH the Emir deserves the praise he has received thus far from the international community. Let's hope that the funds reach the Syrian civilians before too long and that they can go some way to improving the dire situation of these people.