Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited Iraq to strengthen cooperation in combating the Islamic State group. He met with Iraqi officials amid ongoing security challenges and expressed readiness for collaborative efforts. The visit occurs in a complicated geopolitical context following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, highlighting concerns over civilian safety and the need for investigations into mass killings in Syria.
During a recent visit to Baghdad, Asaad al-Shaibani, Syria’s interim foreign minister, emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration with Iraq in combatting the remnants of the Islamic State group. This visit coincided with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s announcement of the elimination of a senior IS leader, highlighting ongoing security concerns in both nations.
The diplomatic landscape has shifted significantly since the 2011 ouster of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, who maintained strong ties with the Iraqi government. Following Assad’s overthrow, Iraq’s relations with Syria have become intricate, with Iraq being predominantly Shiite Muslim and aligned with both the United States and Iran, the latter being a principal supporter of Assad during his regime.
The civil war in Syria, initiated by Assad’s response to democratic protests, saw various armed groups’ involvement. The new interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has attempted to adopt a moderate approach, despite ties to past militant organizations.
Upon arriving in Baghdad, al-Shaibani engaged in discussions with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, where he articulated that “Security is a shared responsibility” and expressed readiness to collaborate against the threat posed by the Islamic State along their shared border.
Iraqi Prime Minister al-Sudani reported the death of Abdullah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi, a high-ranking IS official, stating he was labeled as one of the world’s most dangerous terrorists. This operation was executed in conjunction with the US-led coalition, signaling continued efforts to dismantle the jihadist presence in the region.
Additionally, Minister Hussein highlighted Iraq’s expectations for decisive outcomes from inquiries pertaining to the mass killings of civilians perpetrated by security forces, predominantly affecting the Alawite minority in Syria. He conveyed Iraq’s apprehension regarding these events and the hope that Syria’s investigation could foster civil peace.
Baghdad condemned the recent massacre of over 1,383 civilians in Syria and expressed concern over threats directed towards Syrian individuals within Iraq. The rise of anti-Syrian sentiment among pro-Iran groups has resulted in arrests of several Syrians by Iraqi authorities. In response, Syria’s foreign ministry called for Baghdad to implement measures to ensure the safety of Syrians residing in Iraq.
In summary, Syria’s interim foreign minister’s visit to Iraq underscores the pressing need for enhanced security cooperation amid the enduring threat of the Islamic State. The complexity of relations between Iraq and Syria, stemming from historical alliances and recent conflicts, necessitates careful diplomacy. Iraq’s condemnation of violence against Syrian civilians highlights ongoing humanitarian concerns, while both countries strive for stability and peace in their regions.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
