Baghdad’s invitation to new Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa for the Arab League summit has ignited political divisions in Iraq. His controversial history as a militant complicates his role as a statesman. Opposition from Shiite factions contrasts with support from Sunni groups, signaling the challenges Iraq faces regarding national reconciliation and regional diplomacy.
An official invitation from Baghdad to new Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa for the upcoming Arab League summit has sparked significant political divisions within Iraq. Al-Sharaa assumed the presidency after leading a rebel offensive that ousted his predecessor, Bashar Assad, in December. His past as a Sunni Islamist militant has generated distrust among many, particularly Shiite groups in Iraq, complicating his efforts to present himself as a unifying leader amid ongoing challenges post-civil war.
Known previously as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, al-Sharaa was involved with al-Qaida insurgents during the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 and currently faces a terrorism-related arrest warrant in Iraq. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani disclosed that Iraq has officially invited al-Sharaa to the summit on May 17, following a previously private meeting in Qatar; however, al-Sharaa has yet to confirm his attendance.
Iraq aims to establish itself as a mediator in regional conflicts, having previously facilitated dialogue between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The invitation to al-Sharaa is perceived by some as a chance to enhance Baghdad’s diplomatic image. Nonetheless, robust opposition stems from influential Shiite factions that align with Iran, viewing al-Sharaa’s invitation as problematic given Tehran’s support for Assad during the Syrian civil war.
Notably, Iraqi Shiite militias had fought in support of Assad, making al-Sharaa a controversial figure. Mustafa Sand, a member of the Coordination Framework, revealed in a video that the Supreme Judicial Council has confirmed a valid arrest warrant against al-Sharaa, a notion supported by a security official who requested anonymity.
The Islamic Dawa Party, led by former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, urged the government to ensure summit participants possess a clear judicial record, emphasizing that individuals with a history of violations against Iraqis should not be welcomed in Baghdad. Conversely, Sunni political factions have expressed support for al-Sharaa’s participation. Prominent Sunni figure Dhafir Al-Ani remarked that denying al-Sharaa’s presence would undermine Iraqi governmental efforts.
The Iraqi government has yet to publicly address the backlash surrounding this invitation. While a warrant would not necessarily prevent al-Sharaa from attending the summit, past instances demonstrate that other nations have overlooked similar legal barriers. The recent U.S. decision to forgo pursuing an arrest reward for al-Sharaa, despite not officially recognizing the new Syrian leadership, further complicates the situation.
Observers suggest this controversy reveals the profound divisions within Iraq’s political landscape and highlights the obstacles to national reconciliation. As political analyst Munaf Al-Musawi noted, welcoming al-Sharaa could be seen as an affront to Iraq’s victims, whereas Sunni factions view his presence as a diplomatic achievement, which may exacerbate sectarian tensions in the nation.
In conclusion, the invitation extended to Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa for the Arab League summit in Baghdad has ignited notable political strife within Iraq. Complications arise from al-Sharaa’s controversial past and existing legal challenges, pitting different political factions against each other. As Iraq seeks to strengthen its diplomatic relations, the implications of this invitation extend beyond regional politics, reflecting deeper sectarian divides that challenge national unity and reconciliation efforts.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
