Syria’s interim Foreign Minister visited Iraq to enhance cooperation in combating Islamic State remnants. Shaibani’s discussions with Iraqi officials addressed both security concerns and investigations into mass killings of Alawites in Syria. Recent developments illustrate the complex dynamics of Syria-Iraq relations and ongoing efforts to address terrorism and civil welfare.
On Friday, Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited Baghdad, emphasizing his government’s commitment to enhance cooperation with Iraq in combatting the remnants of the Islamic State (IS) group. This visit followed Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s announcement regarding the elimination of a senior IS leader, underscoring the urgent need for collaborative security measures between both nations.
This visit marked Shaibani’s inaugural trip to Iraq since the December ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, which has complicated bilateral relations. Iraq, primarily Shiite Muslim and a strategic U.S. ally, maintains significant ties with Iran, a past supporter of Assad, increasing the complexities of the two countries’ dynamics.
Additionally, while Assad relied heavily on Russian support, Iran and Hezbollah also actively aided his regime during the tumultuous 13-year civil war. The recent Sunni Muslim groups that overthrew Assad have led to a shift in governance, now represented by Ahmed al-Sharaa, a figure with a controversial past linked to Al-Qaeda.
During the press conference with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Shaibani articulated, “Security is a shared responsibility,” affirming Syria’s readiness to collaborate against IS across the lengthy shared border, stressing that “Terrorism knows no borders”.
Sudani highlighted the significant achievement of Iraqi forces in eliminating IS leader Abdullah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi, recognized as a prominent terrorist figure. Subsequent military operations involved U.S. intelligence support, emphasizing continued efforts to dismantle IS networks in the region.
Hussein expressed hope for productive outcomes from ongoing investigations into reported mass civilian killings targeting the Alawite minority in Syria. Baghdad condemned the violence, highlighting concerns over the civilian toll while initiating an inquiry into an attack targeting Syrian laborers in Iraq, an act linked to retaliatory sentiments from newly formed local factions.
In recent actions, the Iraqi government arrested individuals accused of supporting terrorist movements and promoting aggression against Syrians. The Syrian foreign ministry has condemned these violent incidents, urging Iraq to safeguard the welfare of its citizens residing there.
In summary, the visit of Syria’s interim Foreign Minister to Iraq highlights a crucial phase in addressing regional security challenges posed by IS. Both nations recognize the importance of united efforts against terrorism while navigating the complexities born from their historical political alliances. The commitment to investigating civilian rights violations represents an essential step towards establishing stability and security in both countries.
Original Source: www.france24.com
