Syria’s Foreign Minister Engages in Security Talks During Iraq Visit
Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani visited Iraq to discuss enhancing cooperation against the remnants of the Islamic State group. The visit follows the announcement of a senior IS leader’s death and highlights the evolving and complicated relationship between Syria and Iraq since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. Tensions remain as Iraq condemns recent violence against civilians in Syria, while both nations seek to address shared security concerns.
On a recent visit to Baghdad, Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani expressed his government’s intent to enhance cooperation with Iraq in combating remnants of the Islamic State group. This visit coincided with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani’s announcement regarding the elimination of a senior IS leader, highlighting ongoing security concerns in the region. Shaibani’s trip marks his first since the Islamist alliance ousted Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in December, with complexities in Syria-Iraq relations arising since that time.
Iraq, with its Shiite Muslim majority, has cultivated strategic ties with both the United States and Iran, the latter being a significant supporter of Assad’s regime. During the civil war triggered by Assad’s response to pro-democracy protests, various Iraqi armed groups aided in defending his government. Following the ousting of Assad, interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has attempted to present a more moderate stance, although his past affiliations include fighting alongside Al-Qaeda in Iraq.
During the meeting with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, Shaibani emphasized that security is a shared responsibility and conveyed readiness to strengthen cooperation against IS. He remarked, “Terrorism knows no borders,” highlighting the necessity for joint efforts along the border.
Prime Minister Sudani confirmed the death of IS leader Abdullah Makki Muslih al-Rufayi, described as a significant threat not only in Iraq but worldwide, and acknowledged the successful operation conducted with US collaboration. At the press conference, Hussein commented on Iraq’s hope for positive outcomes from Syria’s investigation into recent mass civilian killings primarily targeting the Alawite community, expressing concerns over its potential effects on civil peace in Syria.
Baghdad condemned a recent massacre in coastal Syria that claimed at least 1,383 civilian lives, predominantly of the Alawite sect, affiliated with Assad. In light of rising tensions, Iraq has commenced investigations into an attack against Syrian workers, following threats from newly formed groups in Iraq pledging to avenge the atrocity. Consequentially, Iraqi forces have detained 13 Syrians suspected of supporting terrorist factions linked to these acts. Furthermore, Syria’s foreign ministry called for Baghdad to ensure the safety of its citizens residing in Iraq, denouncing the ongoing violence against them.
The visit of Syria’s interim Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani to Iraq underscores the intricate dynamics of security cooperation between the two nations as they confront the remnants of the Islamic State. This diplomatic engagement not only emphasizes the shared responsibility for combatting terrorism but also reveals the complexities stemming from the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. Iraq’s condemnation of recent violence against civilians in Syria and its investigations into related incidents reflect the cautious path both nations must navigate in pursuit of stability and peace.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
