Iraqi Silence on Syrian Developments: Concerns and Cautious Anticipation

Iraq has adopted a cautious stance towards Syria’s political shifts, particularly following Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s appointment as transitional president. This approach is influenced by historical tensions, the goal of maintaining national security, and ongoing evaluations of Syria’s evolving political landscape. Although there are aspirations for reconciliation, Iraq remains watchful and strategic in its engagement with Syria.

Iraq has been notably reticent regarding recent political changes in Syria, including the appointment of Ahmad Al-Sharaa as transitional president. Analysts suggest that Baghdad will continue this cautious approach, closely observing regional affairs and Syria’s responses before establishing an official position. Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has reiterated Iraq’s support for Syria’s territorial integrity and a political process led by its own people, avoiding direct intervention.

Since the fall of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime, Iraq has not engaged collaboratively with the new Syrian administration. The only official action reported was a visit by intelligence chief Hamid Al-Shatri. The new Syrian administration has undertaken several significant moves, such as dismantling previous armed factions, altering the constitution, and dissolving the Baath Party that governed Syria for decades.

Ahmad Al-Sharaa has not publicly detailed Syria’s foreign relations. However, Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani has indicated that Syria aims to foster peace in the Arab region and assumes a prominent role in this peace-building endeavor. The transitional government expresses a desire for constructive relationships, including with Iraq, hoping for reconciliation and cooperation.

Bassem Suleiman, a noted Syrian researcher, highlighted the government’s intent to forge peaceful ties to prioritize Syria’s reconstruction. He emphasized the necessity of healing past rifts by establishing cooperative relations with all countries. Al-Sharaa’s past affiliations with Al-Qaeda have sparked intrigue regarding his leadership capability in advancing Iraq-Syria relations.

Despite recent developments, Iraq maintains stringent border security, deploying military units and surveillance systems to mitigate risk. This reality compounds Iraq’s cautious political approach. Mudhtar Al-Musawi, a member of Iraq’s Foreign Relations Committee, expressed skepticism about Syria’s political clarity, emphasizing the need for careful evaluation amidst ongoing territorial challenges posed by the Syrian Democratic Forces.

Dr. Ihsan Al-Shammari postulated various factors influencing Iraq’s limited engagement with Syria, such as Al-Sharaa’s contentious ascent to power, persistent security coordination problems, and the evolving relationship dynamics with Iran. He remarked that Iraq welcomes Al-Sharaa’s presidency while emphasizing that concerns will likely temper deeper involvement in Syrian proceedings.

In his inauguration speech, Al-Sharaa committed to crafting an inclusive government representing all Syrians. Conclusionally, although Iraq expresses a fundamental interest in Syria’s transitional phase, the overarching apprehensions prevent a prompt embrace of these changes. Therefore, Iraq’s official stance will remain one of measured and strategic contemplation.

Iraq’s muted response to the current political developments in Syria, particularly following the appointment of Ahmad Al-Sharaa, reflects a careful analysis of regional stability and security dynamics. Since the overthrow of Bashar Al-Assad, Iraq has prioritized preserving its borders and national integrity while balancing its diplomatic relations amidst a balancing act influenced by past animosities and current geopolitical interests. The backdrop of prior hostile sentiments and ongoing security concerns necessitates a prudent approach to Iraqi-Syrian relations, where Iraq seeks assurance regarding regional stability before proceeding.

In summary, Iraq’s reluctance to engage actively with Syria’s new administration stems from significant historical, political, and security concerns. While it acknowledges the transitional government’s aspirations, the nation is cautious and deliberative in navigating its response, aimed at safeguarding its interests. Iraq is anticipated to remain observant, welcoming the prospect of collaboration once greater clarity emerges regarding Syria’s political trajectory and intentions.

Original Source: shafaq.com